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From Molecular Bioengineering to Translational Neuroscience: The Process of Transitioning Research Focus as a Bioengineer

Speaker
Devin W. McBride, Ph.D.
Date
Location
SEC 206
Abstract
During my Ph.D. in Bioengineering, I studied the thermodynamics of crowded protein solutions and applied our understanding to develop a novel device for the treatment of brain swelling. We tested our device in two animal models of brain swelling and found that we could prolong the survival of mice with severe brain swelling as well as reduce the brain swelling.
For my postdoctoral training, I began performing translational neuroscience research with an emphasis on cerebrovascular diseases (including stroke). I utilized six animal models to investigate the pathophysiologies and treatments of these diseases. One interesting line of research was the use of snake venom to treat brain injuries.
Upon starting my own lab at UTHealth, I am interested in understanding and treating the delayed injury which occurs after aneurysm rupture (i.e. subarachnoid hemorrhage). To date, clinical trials have failed to improve patient outcome after subarachnoid hemorrhage, so I am using animal models to mimic the injury after subarachnoid hemorrhage and investigating therapeutics to improve outcomes.