Washington University in St Louis · Biomedical EngineeringMicroglial Imaging and Neurodegeneration Lab
Aisling Chaney · Saint Louis, Missouri
Research Focus
Dr. Aisling Chaney's lab focuses on advancing our understanding of the role of microglia in neurodegenerative diseases, like Alzheimer's and multiple sclerosis. The lab is developing a novel imaging technique using PET radiotracers specifically targeting THIK-1, a potassium channel found in microglia. This innovative approach aims to provide better insights into microglial activity and could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment options for neurological disorders.
microglianeurodegenerative diseasesPET imagingTHIK-1biomarkersAlzheimer's diseasemultiple sclerosis
Research Aims
5AIM 01Develop THIK-1-targeted PET radioligands for imaging microglial responses.
AIM 02Evaluate the specificity of these radioligands in vitro.
AIM 03Assess the in vivo biodistribution and brain penetrance of the radiotracers.
AIM 04Investigate the potential of these imaging agents in animal models of neurodegenerative diseases.
AIM 05Enhance understanding of microglial dynamics in neurological conditions.
Skills the Lab Values
PET radiotracer developmentin vitro assaysanimal modelsradiolabeling techniquesbiodistribution studiesmicroscopyimmunohistochemistrydata analysisligand binding assays
Output against the department
Publications51bottom 6% of dept.559th of 595
this lab
most publishedleast published
Citations1.5kbottom 10% of dept.537th of 595
this lab
most citedleast cited
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