Our research program focuses on the development of innovative human stem cell-based models to investigate optic pathway gliomas (OPGs) associated with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). Using patient-derived and gene-edited human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), we differentiate key neural cell types—such as retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), astrocytes, and microglia—to reconstruct the cellular microenvironment of the optic nerve. Through the application of compartmentalized microfluidic platforms and 3D co-culture systems, we model neuron-glia interactions under both physiological and NF1-mutant conditions. These models enable detailed study of NF1-driven tumorigenesis, glial proliferation, and axonal degeneration in a human context, offering new insights into disease mechanisms and opportunities for therapeutic discovery.
Post-doctoral Fellowship - University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 2005-2010
Ph.D. - University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 1999-2004
