Neuromuscular Immunopathology Research Laboratory
Director: Eroboghene E. Ubogu, M.D.
The laboratory seeks to further understand the molecular determinants and mechanisms by which the immune response regulates peripheral nerve system function during health (immunosurveillance) and in autoimmune pathogenic states. Such knowledge is critical to the selection and design of targeted therapies for the treatment of immune-mediated disorders affecting nerve and muscle.
Using immunological and molecular biological techniques applied to in vivo and in vitro models, we aim to deduce the relevant molecular determinants on circulating mononuclear leukocytes and endothelial cells that are relevant for leukocyte trafficking into the peripheral nervous system. Our current focus is on the processes that subserve trafficking of immunocompetent cells across the blood-nerve barrier. Based on lessons learned about leukocyte trafficking in other vascular beds, including the blood-brain barrier, it is hypothesized that a remarkably complex set of interactions between integrins on specific circulating leukocytes, adhesion molecules expressed on resting or activated vascular endothelial cells, and signals, such as chemokines, expressed by cells (such as Schwann cells) on the abluminal side of the blood-nerve barrier play in role in the entry and exit of immunocompetent leukocytes into peripheral nerve. These molecules are potentially amenable to therapeutic modulation in pathogenic states. We plan to use similar techniques to understand similar processes that may occur in skeletal muscle.
With better understanding of the relevant pathogenic mechanisms, we hope to more effectively treat severe immune-mediated neuromuscular disorders such as the Guillian-Barré syndrome, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy, vasculitic neuropathy and idiopathic inflammatory myopathies. Such knowledge may also provide insights into the etiology and treatment of less aggressive, slowly progressive nerve disorders that are now recognized as idiopathic sensorimotor neuropathy.
Neuromuscular Immunopathology Research Laboratory
Department of Neurology
Baylor College of Medicine
Neurosensory Center
6501 Fannin, Suite NB302
Houston, Texas 77030
Tel: 713-798-8506 (animal electrophysiology)
Tel: 713-798-7641 (immunology)
Fax: 713-798-3676Click here for Maps & Directions | Interactive Map (#22)