Research:

Cerebral hemodynamics and metabolism: Explore fundamental mechanisms of cerebral blood flow and metabolism in the brain to explain the control of cerebral blood flow as a function of brain activity in normal and disease states such as stroke. Our work aims to quantify transport and pharmacokinetic mechanisms using advanced imaging modalities in combination with computational techniques. Our lab conducts experiments on cell culture and animal models and performs non-invasive imaging on human subjects with magnetic resonance imaging and digital subtraction angiography.

Drug Delivery: We explore drug administration techniques to the central nervous system via convection enhancement, electromagnetic guidance of nanoparticles as well as intrathecal drug delivery. To complement experiments, we use computational methods to study quantitative dose-response relationship for optimal drug delivery.

Education: Train bioengineers and medical researchers in intracranial dynamics, pharmacokinetics and metabolism of the central nervous system.

Hydrocephalus: Our lab studies the causes and effects of hydrocephalus. We investigate the role of brain aquaporins in water clearance during pathological processes. We develop and test new pharmacological treatment options based on new insights about molecular water transport mechanism in the brain.

Current Research Interests:

Cerebral hemodynamics: Predict organ-wide blood flow patters in normal conditions and in diseases including ischemic stroke, arterio-venous malformations (AVM) and aneurysms.

Control of cerebral blood flow and metabolism: Investigate molecular mechanisms of neurovascular coupling using micro-imaging and computational methods. Measure blood flow in major cerebral blood vessels with in-vivo imaging modalities.

Fluid exchange in the brain: Elucidate transport mechanisms in the brain through aquaporin transmembrane proteins. Quantify intracellular regulatory mechanisms towards novel molecular treatment options of hydrocephalus.

Virtual reality diagnostic and training for neurosurgeons: Develop novel fully immersed virtual reality applications for providing neurosurgeons and medical students with better diagnostic, planning and training options for neurovascular interventions.

Hydrocephalus: Develop micro-electronic devices including a ventricular volume sensor to improve treatment options for hydrocephalus patients.