COMPREHENSIVE NII REPORT 2025 by Fall2020

Neurosciences in Colorado

A multi-departmental collection of Research, Education and Clinical Services at the University of Colorado School of Medicine

Greetings From the Department of Neurosurgery Chair:

Welcome to the first edition of the Neuroscience Comprehensive Report, put together by the Neuroscience Innovation Initiative (NII). This report is dedicated to all the incredible neuroscience faculty at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, and to all of the inspirational work currently going on, both on and off campus across the neurosciences. As many of you know, the NII was first started in the fall of 2019, when a group of us, knowing the potential of the neurosciences on our campus, realized the need for a more comprehensive, campus wide approach to both clinical, translational and basic science research, exploring the many facets of the neurosciences. At that time, we were, and remain, one of the only medical centers of our size in the country without a formalized Neuroscience Institute or Center. Our mission is:

1. To comprehensively and strategically integrate the research and clinical aspects of the Neurosciences on the Anschutz Campus and beyond.

2. To foster collaborations across departments, divisions and campuses, stimulating innovative, creative, and novel approaches to understanding and treating neurologic disease, and thereby increasing grant opportunities, particularly in the translational sciences, and

3. To vigorously market and communicate the work of the neurosciences across CU campuses, the local region, and the entire nation.

As we started this mission in 2020, with the goal of ultimately establishing a dedicated Neuroscience Institute, we realized that approximately 80% of the research being done on campus was, in some form or another, related to the neurosciences, generating over 39.8 million dollars in federal grants, with over 198 principal investigators. The field of Neurosciences is one of the fastest growing career platforms in medicine, encompassing bio-engineering, behavioral health and community outreach, education and well being.

Over the years, we have had tremendous success in bringing together the many disparate groups on our campus, supporting the adage that, “the whole is better than the sum of their parts.”

Our goal has been to provide transformative research opportunities, foster collaboration, provide community benefit, enhance our neuroscience reputation and disseminate and communicate our work both regionally and nationally.

In an attempt to bring these many groups together under a common thread, we currently have eight priority program areas. These are:

• Neurodegenerative Disorders and the Aging Brain

• Neural Engineering and Modulation

• Brain and Spinal Cord Tumors

• Neuroimmunology, Virology and Inflammation

• Neuro Injury, Rehabilitation and Repair

• Neuro Circuitry, Seizure and Substance Abuse

• Psychiatry and Behavioral Health

• Neuro Development and Childhood Conditions

Although not comprehensive, this beginning and broad program list has allowed us to bring like-minded researchers across campus together and add to the already many nationally recognized clinical and research programs. As a result, at the January 2026 UCHealth/SOM campus wide retreat, prioritizing research and clinical programs on campus, the “Center for Precision Neuromodulation” and the “Center for Advanced Neuroimmunology and Inflammation” were very favorably received.

This report (also not as comprehensive as we would like) is an attempt to summarize the incredible work that is currently being done in each of our eight programs, highlighting some of the individual research groups involved, and to stimulate further interest in the neurosciences in the community. We apologize that, invariably, we have missed many important contributions. With little resources and only one part time staff, this is the best we could do. It is clear that from our clinical expertise and the volume and sophistication of the clinical, translational, and basic science research currently being done on this campus, the University of Colorado is poised to be one of the leading institutions in neurologic care in the country.

Our goal remains to make Colorado “the healthiest brain state in the country”. Enjoy.

Sincerely,

Kevin O. Lillehei, MD Chair, Department of Neurosurgery

TOGETHER WE ARE BETTER

» 80% of the research being done at CU Anschutz is related to the Neurosciences (this includes basic science, translational science and clinical trials)

» Over $150 million in research funding (2024) is related to the neurosciences

» Over 100 Principal Investigators doing work within the neurosciences from eight different departments

» Over 200 faculty clinician researchers and educators in the neurosciences

» Eight Departments within the School of Medicine, plus five centers and three institutes, all studying the brain, just on the Anschutz Medical Center campus alone.

A New Era at CU Anschutz

John J. Reilly, Jr., MD steps down as Dean of the CU School of Medicine after nine years at the helm. His tenure marked extensive growth for the School of Medicine. Patient visits doubled, philanthropy doubled, and he brought a 67% increase in research funding, and a 45% increase in recruited faculty members.

Thank you, Dr. Reilly!

During the summer of 2024, CU Anschutz proudly selects

John H. Sampson, MD

as the new Dean of the School of Medicine, as well as the Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs. Formerly the Senior Vice President at the Duke University Health System and Integrated Health Practice, Dr. Sampson brings a new era of collaboration, cooperation, and growth. The Neuroscience community has been especially excited about the selection of Dr. Sampson because he is an esteemed neurosurgeon and researcher in our field!

MUCH TO CELEBRATE!

Cristin Welle, PhD

Associate Professor of Neurosurgery wins 2023

SPARK award to develop

Vagus Nerve Stimulation

Technology for the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis

Gregory Way, PhD, MS

Assistant Professor in Biomedical Informatics received the Interstellar Beyond Award from the Japan Agency for Medical Research. His work with pyroptosis may bring new insights for the field of neurooncology.

Christina Vaughan, MD, MHS

Associate Professor of Neurology receives 2023 CU Anschutz GIM Excellence Award for her work in Neuropalliative care.

Evan White, PhD

current NCRE Scholar (Cohort 8), received a K99/R00 NIH award for his work in “cultural neuroscience” and mental health disparities among American Indians.

Joaquin Espinosa, PhD Professor of Pharmacology and Executive Director of the Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome (and colleagues) receive funding from the inaugural Anschutz Acceleration Initiative to develop the first immunomodulatory therapy for children with Down Syndrome.

Kendy Kohrt, PhD

Professor of geriatric medicine at the School of Medicine and professor of epidemiology at the Colorado School of Public Health receives Faculty Research Excellence Award for her contributions to the field of metabolic research, particularly related to older adults, including

Manisha Patel, PhD

Associate Dean for Research & Graduate Studies and Professor in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences receives Javits Award in Neuroscience for her work in energy and oxidative stress in epilepsy.

Jessica Nelson, PhD

Assistant Professor in the Department of Cell & Developomental Biology was selected as a Boettcher Investigator, under the foundation’s Webb-Waring Biomedical Research Awards Program for her work in neuronal circuits for processing sensory information.

PROGRAM ONE Neurodegenerative Disease and the Aging Brain

ven though the prevalence of neurodegenerative conditions is increasing at an alarming rate, there are more treatment options than ever, and new ones are discovered every month. At CU, we are in the forefront of both national and international research on neurodegeneration. Recent research strongly shows that simple lifestyle changes can impact the progression of dementia or movement disorders. We have the latest technology and expertise to combat these alarming numbers. The unique collaboration between academic research and pharma at CU promises a better future of care. One in six people across the world are suffering with a neurological condition. The elderly are more prone to these conditions because the brain and spinal cord lose nerve cells and weight (atrophy). Nerve cells may begin to pass messages more slowly than in the past. Waste products or other chemicals such as beta amyloid can collect in the brain tissue as nerve cells break down.

Conditions we treat and study

Neurodegenerative Disease and the Aging Brain

Program Leadership

Huntington Potter, PhD

Director, University of Colorado Alzheimer’s and Cognition Center

Director, Alzheimer’s Disease Program, Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome

Kurt N. and Edith von Kaulla Memorial Professor of Neurology

Vice Chair of Basic Research, Neurology Department

Brianne Bettcher, PhD

Associate Professor, Neurology

Director of Neuropsychology Research, CU Alzheimer’s and Cognition Center

Director of Colorado Aging Brain Laboratory Neuropsychologist

Mark Dell-Acqua, PhD

Professor and Vice Chairman Department of Pharmacology

Director, NeuroTechnology Center

Joaquin Espinoza, PhD

Professor, Department of Pharmacology

Executive Director, Lynda Crnic Institute for Down’s Syndrome

Ann-Charlotte (Lotta) Granholm-Bentley, DDS, PhD

Professor & Researcher Department of Neurosurgery

Samuel Guzman, MD

Assistant Professor

Head of Neuropathology Education Program

Head of Neuroautopsy

Victoria Pelak, MD

Professor, Departments of Neurology & Opthamology

Fellowship Director, Neuroopthamology

Current Research Topics

◊ Computational Speech Analytics for early detection of dementia

◊ Safety and efficacy of Granulocyte Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor (GM-CSF/ Leukine®) as a treatment for mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s disease

◊ Synaptic Plasticity in neurodevelopmental, mental health, and neurological disorders such as Down syndrome, Alzheimer’s, epilepsy, schizophrenia, autism, PTSD, and traumatic brain injury that are all associated with impaired cognitive function

◊ Exosomal biomarkers in neurodegeneration

◊ Correlations between Down’s Syndrome and Alzheimer's type Dementia

◊ Neuro immunology & virology, including Covid 19, and prediction of dementia & other aging conditions

◊ How Neuropharmacology focuses on cAMP and calcium second messenger signaling pathways are organized at the postsynaptic specializations of excitatory neuronal synapses

Clinical Spotlights

Memory Disorders Clinic

The University of Colorado Neurobehavior and Memory Disorders Clinic in the Central Park neighborhood of Denver. We see over 2500 unique patient visits each year with memory complaints and neurodegenerative diseases. With eight behavioral neurologists, behavioral neurology fellows, a neuropsychologist, neuropsychology fellows, two advanced practice providers, and two clinical nurses, we can provide world-class memory care through accurate diagnoses and the latest treatments.

Alzheimer’s and Cognition Center

The University of Colorado (CU) Alzheimer’s and Cognition Center is located at the CU Anschutz Medical Campus and is part of the School of Medicine, Department of Neurology. Our center offers clinical care, clinical research, and translational research through a collaboration between the University of Colorado and the University of Colorado Health System. We emphasize both research and clinical care using a team approach, with laboratory research scientists and neurology clinicians, who are also faculty members and clinical researchers at the CU School of Medicine, all working collaboratively on the science and treatments of neurodegenerative diseases. Our center also connects with the community outside of the university with education and support programs, participating in community events, and working with community advisory boards.

UCHealth Neurosciences Clinics Anschutz Medical Center

The UCHealth inpatient services and outpatient clinics are the largest provider of comprehensive neurological and neurosurgical care in the Rocky Mountain region. Our neurosciences practice is nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Report, and 70% of our Neuro ICU nurses have CCRN (Critical Care Registered Nurse) or CNRN (Certified Neuroscience Nurse) board certifications. We diagnose and treat a broad range of neurological conditions with diagnostic precision, proven therapies and a multi-disciplinary, collaborative team approach. Specialties include (but are not limited to) essential tremor, pituitary and other brain tumors, sleep disorders, spine conditions, chronic back pain, dizzines, headaches, ALS, carpal tunnel syndrome, multiple sclerosis, dementia, stroke, Parkinson’s Disease, Huntington’s Disease and more.

Neurodegenerative Disease and the Aging Brain

Former University of Denver Chancellor, Rebecca Chopp, speaks about her personal experience with the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s, and her book, “Still Me” at one of NII’s “TED for your HEAD” sessions.

In the news...

Olfactory Viral Inflammation Associated with Accelerated Onset of Alzheimer’s disease. Featuring Andrew Bubak, PhD, assistant research professor in the department of Neurology.

Tara Carlisle, MD, Assistant Professor in Neurology, and a behavior neurologist at the Alzheimer’s and Cognition Center, speaks about Genetics and Alzheimer’s.

Hunt Potter, PhD, Director of the Alzheimer’s & Cognition Center, speaks About Sex Differences in Alzheimer’s Disease, and Mixed Dementias

Ece Brayman, Assistant Professor in the Department of Neurology, discusses the challenges in diagnosis Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) vs. Alzheimer’s & Dementia.

Neurodegenerative Disease and the Aging Brain

Greg Young, a 78 year old from Larkspur, Colorado became the first patient to receive Leqembi, an FDA approved drug for Alzheimer’s.

Tyler Martinez, a student in Pharmacology & Molecular Medicine and Mark DellAcqua (senior author) have discovered inhibiting a key protein can stop the destruction of synapses and dendritic spines commonly seen in Alzheimer’s disease.

Joie Molden, PhD, Assistant Professor in the Department of Neurosurgery and Certified Clinical Neuropsychologist, along with several colleagues, study the progression of frontotemporal Dementia.

Automated Volumetric Software in Dementia: Help or Hindrance to the Neuroradiologist? Jody Tanabe, MD, Neuroradiologist at CU, discusses.

David Arciniegas, MD, Professor in the Department of Neurology (and his colleagues) is studying psychiatric screening measures in Frontotemporal Dementia.

As mind-reading technology improves, Colorado passes first-innation law. Dr. Sean Pauzauskie, neurologist at UCHealth Poudre Valley Hospital discusses.

Click images to read more

Neurodegenerative Disease and the Aging Brain

The links between viruses (such as covid and herpes) and Alzheimer’s Disease

Click images to read more

University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus-Led Team Receives Up to $46 Million to Develop Innovative Treatment to Cure Blindness. Congrats to Kia Washington, MD and Christene Huang, PhD!

Neuro Ping-pong encourages movement and sparks joy for people dealing with MS, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Dr. Enrique Alvarez comments.

New blood tests for Alzheimer’s may allow for earlier detection of the terrible disease. But how much will Alzheimer’s blood tests cost, and who should get them? Tara Carlisle, MD comments.

U.S. News & World Report ranks three UCHealth hospitals among the best in the state

Neurodegenerative Disease and the Aging Brain

Publications

» Aldecoa I, Barroeta I, Carroll SL, Fortea J, Gilmore A, Ginsberg SD, Guzman SJ, Hamlett ED, Head E, Perez SE, Potter H, Molina-Porcel L, Raha-Chowdhury R, Wisniewski T, Yong WH, Zaman S, Ghosh S, Mufson EJ, Granholm AC. Down Syndrome Biobank Consortium: A perspective. Alzheimers Dement. 2024 Mar;20(3):2262-2272. PubMed PMID: 38270275.

» Badhwar A, Hirschberg Y, Valle-Tamayo N, Iulita MF, Udeh-Momoh CT, Matton A, Tarawneh RM, Rissman RA, Ledreux A, Winston CN, Haqqani AS. Assessment of brain-derived extracellular vesicle enrichment for blood biomarker analysis in age-related neurodegenerative diseases: An international overview. Alzheimers Dement. 2024 Jul;20(7):4411-4422. PubMed PMID: 38864416.

» Bateman JR, Josephy-Hernandez S, Apostolova LG, Benjamin S, Barrett AM, Boeve BF, Budson AE, Chemali Z, Lin CR, Daffner KR, Geschwind MD, Heilman KM, Hillis AE, Holden SK, Jaffee MS, Kletenik I, Love MN, Moo LR, Pelak VS, Press DZ, Ramirez-Gomez L, Rosen HJ, Schmahmann JD, Vaishnavi SN, Windon CC, Hamilton RH, Perez DL. Promoting Growth in Behavioral Neurology: A Path Forward. Cogn Behav Neurol. 2024 Jun 1;37(2):49-56. PubMed PMID: 38717325.

» Bettcher BM, Lopez Paniagua D, Wang Y, McConnell BV, Coughlan C, Carlisle TC, Thaker AA, Lippitt W, Filley CM, Pelak VS, Shapiro ALB, Heffernan KS, Potter H, Solano A, Boyd J, Carlson NE. Synergistic effects of GFAP and Aß42: Implications for white matter integrity and verbal memory across the cognitive spectrum. Brain Behav Immun Health. 2024 Oct;40:100834. PubMed PMID: 39206431.

» Chapleau M, La Joie R, Yong K, Agosta F, Allen IE, Apostolova L, Best J, Boon BDC, Crutch S, Filippi M, Fumagalli GG, Galimberti D, Graff-Radford J, Grinberg LT, Irwin DJ, Josephs KA, Mendez MF, Mendez PC, Migliaccio R, Miller ZA, Montembeault M, Murray ME, Nemes S, Pelak V, Perani D, Phillips J, Pijnenburg Y, Rogalski E, Schott JM, Seeley W, Sullivan AC, Spina S, Tanner J, Walker J, Whitwell JL, Wolk DA, Ossenkoppele R, Rabinovici GD. Demographic, clinical, biomarker, and neuropathological correlates of posterior cortical atrophy: an international cohort study and individual participant data meta-analysis. Lancet Neurol. 2024 Feb;23(2):168-177. PubMed PMID: 38267189.

» Cogswell PM, Andrews TJ, Barakos JA, Barkhof F, Bash S, Benayoun MD, Chiang GC, Franceschi AM, Jack CR Jr, Pillai JJ, Poussaint TY, Raji CA, Ramanan VK, Tanabe J, Tanenbaum L, Whitlow CT, Yu FF, Zaharchuk G, Zeinah M, Benzinger TS. Alzheimer Disease Anti-Amyloid Immunotherapies: Imaging Recommendations and Practice Considerations for Monitoring of Amyloid-Related Imaging Abnormalities. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol. 2025 Jan 2. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 39179297.

» Granholm AC, Hamlett ED. The Role of Tau Pathology in Alzheimer’s Disease and Down Syndrome. J Clin Med. 2024 Feb 27;13(5):1338. doi: 10.3390/jcm13051338. PMID: 38592182; PMCID: PMC10932364.

» Granholm AC, Hamlett ED. The Role of Tau Pathology in Alzheimer’s Disease and Down Syndrome. J Clin Med. 2024 Feb 27;13(5). PubMed PMID: 38592182.

» Granholm AC, Larsson L, Öhman F, Zetterberg H, Hansson O, Eriksdotter M, Kern S, Nordberg A. [Dementia in Down syndrome]. Lakartidningen. 2024 Sep 30;121. PubMed PMID: 39354735.

» Granholm AE, Englund E, Gilmore A, Head E, Yong WH, Perez SE, Guzman SJ, Hamlett ED, Mufson EJ. Neuropathological findings in Down syndrome, Alzheimer’s disease and control patients with and without SARS-COV-2: preliminary findings. Acta Neuropathol. 2024 May 27;147(1):92. PubMed PMID: 38801558.

» Grove NC, Pelak VS, Christopher KL, Wagner BD, Lynch AM, Patnaik JL. Cataract Phacoemulsification in People with Dementia: Characterization and Outcomes. Ophthalmic Epidemiol. 2024 Oct;31(5):400-408. PubMed PMID: 37971269.

» Jensen AM, DeWitt P, Bettcher BM, Wrobel J, Kechris K, Ghosh D. Kernel machine tests of association using extrinsic and intrinsic cluster evaluation metrics. PLoS Comput Biol. 2024 Nov;20(11):e1012524. PubMed PMID: 39527632.

Neurodegenerative Disease and the Aging Brain

low CT, Zaharchuk G, Wintermark M. Assessing the Performance of Artificial Intelligence Models: Insights from the American Society of Functional Neuroradiology Artificial Intelligence Competition. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol. 2024 Sep 9;45(9):1276-1283. PubMed PMID: 38663992.

» Ledreux A, Borrás C. Editorial: Women in molecular mechanisms of aging. Front Aging. 2024;5:1471233. PubMed PMID: 39161596.

» Pelak VS. Visual agnosias. In: Roos RP, Editor-in-Chief. MedLink Neurology. San Diego: MedLink, LLC. Available at https://www.medlink. com/articles/visual-agnosias. Originally released on [October 2023]. Updated 07-17-2024.

» Pelak VS, Krishnan V, Serva S, Pressman P, Mahmood A, Noteboom L, Bettcher BM, Sillau SH, Callen AL, Thaker AA. Lobar Microbleeds in the Posterior Cortical Atrophy Syndrome: A Comparison to Typical Alzheimer’s Disease. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep. 2024 Feb;24(2):27-33. PubMed PMID: 38261145.

» Saternos H, Hamlett ED, Guzman S, Head E, Granholm AC, Ledreux A. Unique Pathology in the Locus Coeruleus of Individuals with Down Syndrome. J Alzheimers Dis. 2024;101(2):541-561. PubMed PMID: 39213062.

» Shapiro ALB, Coughlan C, Bettcher BM, Pauley ME, Kim J, Bjornstad P, Rajic B, Truong J, Bell C, Choi YJ, Walker KA, Potter H, Liese AD, Dabelea D, Whitlow CT. Biomarkers of Neurodegeneration and Alzheimer’s Disease Neuropathology in Adolescents and Young Adults with Youth-Onset Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes: A Proof-of-Concept Study. Endocrines. 2024 Jun;5(2):197-213. PubMed PMID: 38764894.

» Tanabe J, Lim MF, Dash S, Pattee J, Steach B, Pressman P, Bettcher BM, Honce JM, Potigailo VA, Colantoni W, Zander D, Thaker AA. Automated Volumetric Software in Dementia: Help or Hindrance to the Neuroradiologist? AJNR Am J Neuroradiol. 2024 Nov 7;45(11):1737-1744. PubMed PMID: 39362700.

» Wohlfert AJ, Phares J, Granholm AC. The mTOR Pathway: A Common Link Between Alzheimer’s Disease and Down Syndrome. J Clin Med. 2024 Oct 17;13(20). PubMed PMID: 39458132.

PROGRAM TWO Neural Engineering & Modulation Human-Device Interface

Neuromodulation refers to the process of regulating or altering the activity of the nervous system through various means. It involves the modification of nerve activity by delivering electrical, chemical, or other forms of signals to specific areas of the brain, spinal cord, or peripheral nerves.

The goal of neuromodulation is to influence the way the nervous system functions, either to restore normal function, alleviate symptoms, or improve certain conditions. This can be done through methods like electrical stimulation, pharmacological stimulation or optogenetics (the use of light to control neurons that have been genetically modified to express light-sensitive proteins).

Human Device Interface (HDI) refers to the system or interface that allows humans to interact with and control devices or machines. The HDI typically involves hardware and software components that translate human inputs (such as touch, voice, movement, or brain signals) into actions that a device can understand and respond to. These interfaces are designed to be intuitive, efficient, and accessible for users, ensuring seamless interaction between people and technology.

Some examples of Human Device Interfaces include: Graphical User Interfaces (GI), Voice User Interfaces (VUI), Touchscreens, Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCI), Gesture Control, and Haptic Feedback. The main goal of an HDI is to make interactions between humans and devices as natural and efficient as possible, minimizing the learning curve and maximizing user comfort and accessibility.

At CU Anschutz, physicians, surgeons and engineers all work together to develop the next generation of medical device technology. New Methods for high resolution imaging of the brain and peripheral nerves is underway. Neuromodulation for individualized rehabilitation and functional recovery, high density neural recordings to track human memory and coginitive demand and restoration of mobility to persons with paralysis or amputations are all at the center of our work. Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is being used for the relief of symptoms associated with movement disorders, such as Parkinson’s Disease and Essential Tremor, and for relief of symptoms associated with psychiatric disorders, such as OCD, Clinical Depression and Schizophrenia.

Conditions we treat and study

Chronic Pain Psychiatric Distorders

Parkinson’s Disease

Peripheral Nerve Disorders

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Schizophrenia

Multiple Sclerosis

Program Leadership

Cristin Welle, PhD

Professor, Neurosurgery and Physiology & Biophysics / Vice-Chair for Research, Department of Neurosurgery

Dan Kramer, MD

Assistant Professor, Department of Neurosurgery Leader: BCI Lab

Leadership, continued

Joseph Sakai, MD

Associate Professor, Psychiatry-Substance Dependence

Richard Weir, PhD

Associate Research Professor Department of Physiology and Biophysics

Emily Gibson, PhD

Associate Professor, Bioengineering

Drew Kern, MD, MS

Associate Professor, Neurology

Co-director, Advanced Therapies for Movement Disorders Program

David DiGregorio, PhD

Professor and Endowed Chair, Department of Physiology and Biophysics

Daniel Denman, PhD

Assistant Professor, Department of Physiology and Biophysics

Rachel Davis, MD

Associate Professor, Psychiatry

Vice Chair, Clinical Affairs and Strategy

Service Director, Interventional Psychiatry

Co-Director, OCD Surgical Program

Medical Director, OCD Program Chief, CU Medicine Outpatient Psych

John Thompson, PhD

Associate Professor, Neurosurgery

Current Research Topics

◊ Next-gen optical imaging devices for nervous system diagnosis and treatment

◊ Brain-computer interface technology to restore movement, language and sensation to patients with paralysis

◊ High precision Vagus Nerve Stimulation to treat Multiple Sclerosis, movement disorders and cognitive function

◊ Advancement of clinically relevant upper limb prosthetic systems

◊ How neurological medical devices interact with the nervous system

◊ Interpretation of neural signals and circuits

◊ Synaptic basis of behavior

◊ Brain encoding and the representation of time

◊ Cerebellar function and altered sensory responses

◊ Dynamic changes in synaptic strength

◊ Patch-clamp and two-photon dynamic imaging

◊ Super-resolution of synaptic macromolecular complexes

◊ Single-unit recordings using high density neuropixel probes in awake subjects.

◊ Neural mechanisms of Sensory perceptions

Clinical Spotlights

We treat OCD in the many ways it shows up. CU Anschutz performed the very first deep brain stimulation surgery on an OCD patient. OCD comes in many forms, including:

• Scrupulosity

• Sexual orientation OCD

• Harm OCD

• Pedophile OCD

• Contamination OCD

• Just Right OCD

• Hyper-Responsibility OCD

• Relationship OCD

• Hyperawareness OCD

University of Colorado Movement Disorders Center University of Colorado Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Program

• Perfectionism

• Phobias (including fear of vomiting, flying, driving, spiders, etc)

• Body Dysmorphic Disorder

• Skin picking disorder (dermatillomania)

• Hair pulling disorder (trichotillomania)

The Movement Disorders Center (MDC) is a nationally recognized center for specialty care of those with movement disorders. The MDC is headquartered at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus (CU Anschutz) in Aurora, CO. The campus is the largest health center in the Rocky Mountain Region.

The Movement Disorders Center was founded in 2012 to provide state-of-the-art interdisciplinary clinical care and community outreach to patients and families in the Rocky Mountain region, pursue research, treat and prevent these disorders, and educate care partners and families. The center was designated a Huntington’s Disease Society of America Center of Excellence in 2015, a Parkinson’s Foundation Center of Excellence in 2019, and a National Ataxia Foundation Center of Excellence in 2024. Click here to learn more.

CU Anschutz Lab Works to Restore Paralyzed Patients’ Senses

The Sci-Fi World of Brain Chip Implants is Here: What Does it Mean?

Can vagus nerve stimulation help with anxiety and other mental health concerns?

Annual Stereotactic and Functional Hands-on Course, Another Success!

Implantable Brain-Computer Interface Drives Innovation in Neurotechnology

Vagus Nerve Stimulation Boosts Motor Learning in Mouse Model. CU Research Team seeks to study effects of VNS in people with Multiple Sclerosis

Study at CU Anschutz Provides Insight into Vagus Nerve’s Link to Brain

How Odors Prompt Certain Brain Cells to Make Decisions. Click here to see article 1, click here to see article 2, click here to see article 3.

Study Finds Schizophrenia Patients May Be Candidates for Deep Brain Stimulation

Electricity from Glucose? Researchers Seek Efficient Powering of Implanted Devices

Restriction of Access to Deep Brain Stimulation & Federal Parity Act

Click images to read more

Neural Engineering & Modulation

» Baker SK, Radcliffe EM, Kramer DR, Ojemann S, Case M, Zarns C, Holt-Becker A, Raike RS, Baumgartner AJ, Kern DS, Thompson JA. Comparison of beta peak detection algorithms for data-driven deep brain stimulation programming strategies in Parkinson’s disease. NPJ Parkinsons Dis. 2024 Aug 9;10(1):150. PubMed PMID: 39122725

» Bayman E, Chee K, Mendlen M, Denman DJ, Tien RN, Ojemann S, Kramer DR, Thompson JA. Subthalamic nucleus synchronization between beta band local field potential and single-unit activity in Parkinson’s disease. Physiol Rep. 2024 May;12(9):e16001. PubMed PMID: 38697943

» Chee K, Hirt L, Mendlen M, Machnik J, Razmara A, Bayman E, Thompson JA, Kramer DR. Brain Shift during Staged Deep Brain Stimulation for Movement Disorders. Stereotact Funct Neurosurg. 2024;102(2):83-92. PubMed PMID: 38286119

» Chee K, Razmara A, Geller AS, Harris WB, Restrepo D, Thompson JA, Kramer DR. Corrigendum: The role of the piriform cortex in temporal lobe epilepsy: A current literature review. Front Neurol. 2023;14:1148230. PubMed PMID: 36908616

» Das R, Gliske SV, Maroni D, Situ-Kcomt M, West LC, Summers MO, Tang S, Vaswani PA, Halpern CH, Thompson JA, Kushida CA, Abosch A. Sleep spindle variation in patients with Parkinson’s disease on first nights of sub-optimal deep brain stimulation. Clin Neurophysiol. 2024 Dec 6;170:91-97. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 39705860

» Das R, Gliske SV, West LC, Summers MO, Tang S, Hirt L, Maroni D, Halpern CH, Thompson JA, Kushida CA, Abosch A. Sleep macro-architecture in patients with Parkinson’s disease does not change during the first night of neurostimulation in a pilot study. J Clin Sleep Med. 2024 Sep 1;20(9):1489-1496. PubMed PMID: 38652493

» Freeman LM, Ung TH, Thompson JA, Ovard O, Olson M, Hirt L, Hosokawa P, Thaker A, Youssef AS. Refining the predictive value of preoperative apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) by whole-tumor analysis for facial nerve outcomes in vestibular schwannomas. Acta Neurochir (Wien). 2024 Apr 5;166(1):168. PubMed PMID: 38575773

» Hemendinger E, Sinsko K, Davis R. Quality of life in deep brain stimulation. Poster Presentation, Department of Psychiatry Poster Session. March 20, 2024. Aurora, COKelbert J, Guest A, Bisarad P, Larsh TR, Bhatia P, Chinander S, Cornejo P, van der Werf L, Ponce FA, Thompson JA, Kruer MC. Local Field Potential-Based Programming for Deep Brain Stimulation in Pediatric DYT1 Dystonia. Mov Disord Clin Pract. 2024 Dec 3. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 39628113

» Jensen MA, Neimat JS, Kerezoudis P, Ali R, Richardson RM, Halpern CH, Ojemann SG, Ponce FA, Lee KH, Haugen LM, Permezel FE, Klassen BT, Kondziolka D, Miller KJ. A General Framework for Characterizing Inaccuracy in Stereotactic Systems. Oper Neurosurg (Hagerstown). 2024 Dec 2;28(3):322-36. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 39627169

» Jensen MA, Neimat JS, Kerezoudis P, Ali R, Richardson RM, Halpern CH, Ojemann SG, Ponce FA, Lee KH, Haugen LM, Permezel FE, Klassen BT, Kondziolka D, Miller KJ. Principles of Stereotactic Surgery. Oper Neurosurg (Hagerstown). 2024 Dec 2;28(3):303-21. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 39627171

» Kelbert J, Guest A, Bisarad P, Larsh TR, Bhatia P, Chinander S, Cornejo P, van der Werf L, Ponce FA, Thompson JA, Kruer MC. Local Field Potential-Based Programming for Deep Brain Stimulation in Pediatric DYT1 Dystonia. Mov Disord Clin Pract. 2024 Dec 3. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 39628113

» Lewis S, Radcliffe E, Ojemann S, Kramer DR, Hirt L, Case M, Holt-Becker AB, Raike R, Kern DS, Thompson JA. Pilot Study to Investigate the Use of In-Clinic Sensing to Identify Optimal Stimulation Parameters for Deep Brain Stimulation Therapy in Parkinson’s Disease. Neuromodulation. 2024 Apr;27(3):509-519. PubMed PMID: 36797194

» Liu Y, Bainbridge J, Sillau S, Rajkovic S, Adkins M, Domen CH, Thompson JA, Seawalt T, Klawitter J, Sempio C, Chin G, Forman L, Fullard M, Hawkins T, Seeberger L, Newman H, Vu D, Leehey MA. Short-Term Cannabidiol with ?-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol in Parkinson’s Disease: A Randomized Trial. Mov Disord. 2024 May;39(5):863-875. PubMed PMID: 38487964

» Martinez-Perez R, Casanova-Martinez D, Thompson JA, Hirt L, Kortz M, Labib MAM, Razmara A, Youssef AS. Circumferential exposure of the cavernous sinus and parasellar region through a combined open and endoscopic endonasal transcavernous approach, a morphometric study.

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» Ryan MV, Satzer D, Ojemann SG, Kramer DR, Thompson JA. Neurophysiologic Characteristics of the Anterior Nucleus of the Thalamus during Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery for Epilepsy. Stereotact Funct Neurosurg. 2024;102(5):293-307. PubMed PMID: 39008968

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PROGRAM THREE Brain and Spinal Tumors Neuro Oncology

An estimated 800,000 Americans are living with a primary brain tumor. A primary brain tumor originates in the brain. It is distinct from secondary brain tumors, which are tumors that spread to the brain from other parts of the body.

Approximately 71% of all brain tumors are benign, while about 29% are malignant. Approximately 58% of all brain tumors occur in females , while about 42% occur in males

There are over 150 types of primary brain tumors and they are classified by cell type, location or benignity. Meningiomas are the most commonly occurring primary nonmalignant brain tumors, accounting for 39% of all tumors and 54.5% of all non-malignant tumors.

Glioblastoma is the most commonly occurring primary malignant brain tumor, accounting for 14.3% of all tumors and 49.1% of all malignant tumors. The median age at diagnosis for a primary brain tumor is 61 years. The average 5-year survival rate for all patients with a primary brain tumor is 75.7%. For patients with a non-malignant brain tumor, the average five year survival rate is 91.8%. For patients with a malignant brain tumor, the five-year survival rate following diagnosis is 35.6%.

Spinal cord tumors are abnormal growths of tissue that develop in or around the spinal cord. They can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). As with brain tumors, Primary spinal cord tumors originate in the spinal cord or its surrounding tissues.

Metastatic spinal cord tumors spread to the spinal cord from other parts of the body, such as the lungs, breast, or prostate. Spinal cord tumors are categorized according to their location. Intramedullary, inside the spinal cord; intradural-extramedullary, inside the spinal cord’s protective covering (dura mater) but outside the spinal cord itself; and Extradural, outside the dura mater, often in the bones of the spine.

Common benign spinal cord tumors include astrocytoma, ependymoma, meningioma, and hemangioblastoma. Common malignant spinal cord tumors include glioblastoma, lymphoma, and metastatic tumors.

Complexities that determine the causes of brain and spinal tumors are dependent upon environment, exposure to radiation, certain medical conditions, genetics and more. Success rates for both brain and spinal tumors are determined by overall general health, ability to surgically remove the tumor, type of tumor, location of tumor, tolerance to chemotherapy and/or radiation and many other factors.

Scientists at the University of Colorado, Anschutz campus are actively studying immunotherapies, exosomes, biomarkers, hormonal regulation, epigenetic modulation and much more.

Conditions we treat and study

Meningioma

Hemangioma

Neurofibroma

Pituitary adenoma

Medulloblastoma

Schwannoma

Giant cell sarcoma

Chordoma

Eosinophilic granuloma

Astrocytoma

Ependyoma

Apex Lesions

Epidural neoplasm

Craniopharyngioma

Kevin Lillehei, MD Chair, Department of Neurosurgery

Nick Foreman, MD Professor, PediatricsHeme/Onc and Chair of NeuroOncology Neurofibromatosis Pediatric Therapeutic Program Director Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders Children’s Hospital Colorado

Program Leadership

Todd Hankinson, MD Professor, Neurosurgery and Pediatrics Division Head, Pediatric Neurosurgery

Siddhartha Mitra, PhD Assistant Professor of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplant

Douglas Ney, MD Professor of Neurology and Neurosurgery Program Director, Neurology Residency Program Vice-Chair Education, Department of Neurology

Denise Damek, MD Professor, Neurology

Michael Graner, PhD

Research Professor, Neurosrg Research Director Neural Tissue Bank

Current Research Topics

◊ Mapping the tumor-infiltrating immune cells during glioblastoma progression

◊ Neoplastic and immune single-cell transcriptomics

◊ Extracellular vesicles/exosomes, immunotherapy, and biomarkers

◊ Caregiver burden by treatment and clinical characteristics of patients with glioblastoma

◊ Radiographic pituitary stalk disruption.

◊ High-Throughput Mechanistic Screening of Epigenetic Compounds for the Potential Treatment of Meningiomas

◊ Advancing Treatment for Pediatric Craniopharyngioma

◊ Pituitary and adrenal tumors.

◊ Neuronal migration and epigenetic modulation

◊ Using gene arrays, identifying novel genes involved in pituitary tumors

Clinical Spotlights

Neuro Oncology Program of Excellence

The University of Colorado Neuro-Oncology Program is part of the larger Multi-Disciplinary Cancer Center at the Anschutz Medical Campus. Patients are treated by faculty and providers from all over the campus, including medical neuro-oncology, neuropathology radiation oncology and neuro-radiology.

We have the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in the Rocky Mountain region (and one of only 49 in the US).

◊ Highly coordinated inter-disciplinary care, including a weekly multidisciplinary tumor board (NeuStrategy Cranial Tumor Gold Status Center of Excellence).

◊ The only neuro-specific intensive care unit in the Rocky Mountain region (24 beds), with 24-hour coverage by fellowship-trained neuro-intensivists and neuro-specific nursing care.

◊ The Rocky Mountain Gamma Knife Center, which has treated over 5000 brain lesions since 1993.

◊ A comprehensive electronic medical record, allowing a secure environment for documenting and coordinating patient care.

◊ Fellowship trained, nationally recognized neurosurgery faculty focused on neurosurgical oncology and skull base neurosurgery.

◊ The largest participation in national and regional clinical brain tumor research in the Rocky Mountain region, with excellent coordination between clinical and research personnel.

◊ Intraoperative MRI scanner, improving the safety and success of surgical resections.

◊ Minimally invasive cranial endoscopy and microscopy for improved outcomes despite smaller incisions.

◊ Stereotactic intraoperative neuronavigation with Medtronic Stealth and BrainLab.

◊ High-definition 3T MRI scanning capability, including functional MRI, MR spectroscopy, and diffusion tensor tractography.

◊ Over 30 years of experience performing awake craniotomies with neuronavigation and intra-operative neurophysiology to preserve neurological function in patients with tumors in eloquent areas.

◊ A regional 2nd opinion center for Neuropathology, including access to tumor biomarkers only offered here for the entire region.

◊ A well-coordinated regional care program for patients who desire adjuvant treatment closer to home, with interaction with a number of hospitals and clinics throughout the Rocky Mountain region.

◊ A Brain Tumor Support Group that meets monthly to offer support to patients and their families.

While our patient volume gives us the experience to provide excellent care to our brain tumor patients, our personalized and well-coordinated approach gives every patient and their family superb individual attention. Come and experience the University of Colorado Hospital Brain Tumor Program difference, and see why it is one of the most effective and experienced brain tumor programs in the country.

UCHealth Brain and Spine Tumor

Multidisciplinary Clinic

Being diagnosed with a brain or spinal tumor can be emotionally difficult. We provide specialized clinic options while providing comprehensive support to you and your family. Click here to learn more.

Neuro multidisciplinary clinic:

Patients diagnosed with a brain or spine tumor are able to see all of our dedicated neurologic specialists involved in their care during one convenient visit.

The Neuro multidisciplinary clinic is held weekly at our comprehensive cancer center located at the Anschutz Medical Campus. Our target patient for this clinic is the newly diagnosed patient, or a patient with recurrent brain cancer or tumor.

At this clinic you have a unique opportunity to talk with ALL of your providers and physicians in the same setting. We will work with you from the moment of diagnosis through the implementation and completion of a uniquely designed treatment plan. We want you to feel absolutely confident that we are providing you with the best treatment options available, options that are designed specifically for you.

Pituitary Tumor Center of Excellence

The University of Colorado Pituitary Tumor Program is one of the largest and most experienced multi-disciplinary pituitary programs in the country. The program, directed by Dr. Kevin O. Lillehei, Chair of the Department of Neurosurgery, and Dr. Margaret Wierman, Professor of Endorcrinology, have experience in the treatment of well over 3,000 surgical cases. The program has assembled a nationally recognized team to comprehensively evaluate patients' tumors and symptoms. Together, the pituitary team has published more than 200 peer-reviewed articles, book chapters and more. The team includes specialists from neurosurgery, neuro-ophthalmology, neuro-pathology, neuroradiology, head and neck surgery, and radiation oncology. They meet once monthly to go over pituitary cases in a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary conference.

The program serves various types of pituitary abnormalities, including growth hormone, Cushing’s Syndrome/ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic Hormone), Prolactinoma, Non-secreting tumors, and Pituitary cancer. Click here to learn more.

The Pituitary Team: Clinical Spotlights (cont.)

Margaret E. Wierman, MD

Professor, MedicineEndocrinology

Chief, Endocrinology Director, Pituitary Program

A Samy Youssef, MD, PhD, MSc, FAANS

Professor, Clinical Neurosurgery

Professor, Clinical Otolaryngology

Director, Complex Cranial & Skull Base Surgery

Kevin O. Lillehei, MD Chair, Department of Neurosurgery

Director, Neurosurgery Neuro Oncology

Timothy Ung, MD

Assistant Professor, Neurosurgery

BK Kleinschmidt-DeMasters, MD

Professor, Pathology, Neurology, Neurosurgery Head of Neuropathology

Angela Grant Pituitary Patient Coordinator Program

Thomas Borges, MD Associate Professor, Radiology Head of Neuroradiology

Brain

The Pituitary Team, continued:

Timothy Waxweiler, MD

Associate Professor, Radiation Oncology

Christie Turin More, MD

Assistant & Associate Professor, Endocrinology

Katja KiseljakVassiliades, DO

Assistant & Associate Professor, Endocrinology

Colin Catel, PA-C, MMS

Assistant Professor, Neurosurgery

Children’s Hospital Colorado Brain Tumor Program

About the Neuro-Oncology Program at

CHCO

If your child has been diagnosed with a brain or spinal cord tumor, the experts in our Neuro-Oncology Program are here for your child and your family. Our team delivers optimal treatment and kid-friendly care, with the goal of preserving and improving your child’s quality of life. A multi-disciplinary team of neuro-oncologists, neurosurgeons, radiation oncologists, neuropathologists, neuroradiologists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, nurse care coordinators and many types of therapists enhance your experience and treatment outcomes.

The Morgan Adams Foundation Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Program includes eight independent well-funded laboratories focused on improving understanding and treatment of pediatric brain and spine tumors.

We’re part of a select group of institutions that are members of multiple consortia focused on clinical trials. Our team’s research has provided evidence for more than five clinical trials that are currently recruiting patients or are in development.

◊ Children’s Oncology Group/PEPCTN

◊ Pediatric Brain Tumor Consortium (PBTC)

◊ Collaborative Network for Neurooncology Clinical Trials (CONNECT)

In the news...

Sujatha Venkataraman, PhD, Receives Funding for Pediatric Brain Cancer Research

International Award Funds Brain Cancer Research at CU Anschutz Gregory Way, PhD, has won the Interstellar Beyond Award from the Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development to further his research in pyroptosis

Brain cancer survivor lives every day like there is a tomorrow. After brain cancer diagnosis, every tomorrow is a treasure.

Answers About Brain Cancer After the Death of NBA Star Dikembe Mutombo. Ryan Ormond, MD, PhD, director of the Adult Brain Tumor Program, talks about

CU Cancer Center Is Home to One of the Largest Groups of Pediatric Brain Tumor Researchers in the Country. Rajeev Vibhakar, MD, PhD, leads the CU Cancer Center pediatric brain tumor research group focused on the leading cause of death among pediatric cancer patients.

Brain and Spinal Tumors

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Brain and Spinal Tumors Neuro Oncology

Gan HK, Hasanain M, Hau AC, Johnson KC, Cazacu S, deCarvalho AC, Khasraw M, Kocakavuk E, Kouwenhoven MCM, Migliozzi S, Niclou SP, Niers JM, Ormond DR, Paek SH, Reifenberger G, Sillevis Smitt PA, Smits M, Stead LF, van den Bent MJ, Van Meir EG, Walenkamp A, Weiss T, Weller M, Westerman BA, Ylstra B, Wesseling P, Lasorella A, French PJ, Poisson LM, Verhaak RGW, Iavarone A, Noushmehr H. The Epigenetic Evolution of Glioma Is Determined by the IDH1 Mutation Status and Treatment Regimen. Cancer Res. 2024 Mar 4;84(5):741-756. PubMed PMID: 38117484

» Marquardt V, Theruvath J, Pauck D, Picard D, Qin N, Blümel L, Maue M, Bartl J, Ahmadov U, Langini M, Meyer FD, Cole A, Cruz-Cruz J, Graef CM, Wölfl M, Milde T, Witt O, Erdreich-Epstein A, Leprivier G, Kahlert U, Stefanski A, Stühler K, Keir ST, Bigner DD, Hauer J, Beez T, Knobbe-Thomsen CB, Fischer U, Felsberg J, Hansen FK, Vibhakar R, Venkatraman S, Cheshier SH, Reifenberger G, Borkhardt A, Kurz T, Remke M, Mitra S. Tacedinaline (CI-994), a class I HDAC inhibitor, targets intrinsic tumor growth and leptomeningeal dissemination in MYC-driven medulloblastoma while making them susceptible to anti-CD47-induced macrophage phagocytosis via NF-kBTGM2 driven tumor inflammation. J Immunother Cancer. 2023 Jan;11(1). PubMed PMID: 36639156

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» Omotosho YB, McGlotten R, Pacak K, Wierman ME, Nieman LK. A Rare Cyclic Cushing Syndrome Mystery Illustrates Diagnostic Principles. JCEM Case Rep. 2024 Jun 24;2(6):luae094. doi: 10.1210/jcemcr/luae094. eCollection 2024 Jun. PMID: 38915761

» Prince EW, Apps JR, Jeang J, Chee K, Medlin S, Jackson EM, Dudley R, Limbrick D, Naftel R, Johnston J, Feldstein N, Prolo LM, Ginn K, Niazi T, Smith A, Kilburn L, Chern J, Leonard J, Lam S, Hersh DS, Gonzalez-Meljem JM, Amani V, Donson AM, Mitra SS, Bandopadhayay P, Martinez-Barbera JP, Hankinson TC. Unraveling the complexity of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype in adamantinomatous craniopharyngioma using multimodal machine learning analysis. Neuro Oncol. 2024 Jun 3;26(6):1109-1123. PubMed PMID: 38334125

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» Raybin JL, Donson A, Foreman NK, Vibhakar R, Handler MH, Liu AK. Maintaining Survival While Improving Quality of Life: An Advanced Practitioner-Led Pilot Feasibility Study to Reduce Radiation Dose in Children With Brain Tumors. J Adv Pract Oncol. 2024 Jan;15(1):2835. PubMed PMID: 39055368

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» Wang D, Ritz C, Pierce A, Brunt B, Luo Y, Dahl N, Venkataraman S, Danis E, Kus K, Mazan M, Rzymski T, Veo B, Vibhakar R. Transcriptional Regulation of Protein Synthesis by Mediator Kinase in MYC-driven Medulloblastoma. bioRxiv. 2024 Mar 13. PubMed PMID: 38559100

» Zahedi S, Riemondy K, Griesinger AM, Donson AM, Fu R, Crespo M, DeSisto J, Groat MM, Bratbak E, Green A, Hankinson TC, Handler M, Vibhakar R, Willard N, Foreman NK, Levy JM. Multi-pronged analysis of pediatric low-grade glioma reveals a unique tumor microenvironment associated with BRAF alterations. bioRxiv. 2024 Apr 10. PubMed PMID: 38645202

PROGRAM FOUR

Neuroimmunology / Neurovirology

/ Neuroinflammation

Neuroimmunology is the study of the intricate interactions and bidirectional influence between the nervous system and the immune system, encompassing how these systems communicate and how disruptions in their interaction can lead to various neurological and psychiatric conditions. Key aspects include bidirectional communication, neuroinflammation and immune privilege.

Neurovirology is the study of viral infections of the nervous system, exploring how viruses invade and affect the brain and spinal cord, potentially causing slow, chronic, or progressive neurological diseases. Focus areas include viral pathogenesis, neuroinflammation, neurodegeneration and neurotropic viral factors.

Neuroinflammation refers to inflammation within the nervous system, particularly the brain and spinal cord, that can be triggered by various factors and is implicated in various neurological disorders. It can be caused by infections, traumatic brain injury, autoimmune conditions, neurodegenerative diseases. Key players in neuroinflammation include microglia, astrocytes and cytokines. Consequences include neurological damage, neurodegenerative disease, mental health issues, and cognitive impairment.

Neuroimmunology / Neurovirology / Neuroinflammation

Conditions we treat and study

Myasthenia Gravis

Stiff Person Syndrome

Lambert-Eaton syndrome

Infectious encephalomyelitis

Alzheimers Disease

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

Multiple Sclerosis

Autoimmune Encephalitis

Limbic encephalitis

Polio Chickenpox Measles Parkinson’s

Meningitis

Program Leadership

Ken Tyler, MD

Professor, Neurology

Louise Baum Endowed Chair, Neurology

Wendy Macklin, PhD

Distinguished Professor Chair, Cell & Developmental Biology

Enrique Alvarez, MD, PhD

Professor & Assistant Medical Director, Neurology

Linda F. van

PhD

Professor & Vice Chair Department of Immunology & Microbiology

Dyk,

Leadership,

Jeff Bennett, MD, PhD

Professor, Neurology & Opthamology

Andrew Bubak, PhD

Assistant Professor, Neurology

Amanda Piquet, MD

Associate Professor, Neurology

PhD

Professor and CoDirector, Center for Neuroscience (CNS) Department of Cell & Developmental Biology

John Corboy, MD, MA

Professor Emeritus, Neurology

Researcher & Clinician, Multiple Sclerosis

Ethan Hughes, PhD

Associate Professor, Cell & Developmental Biology

Daniel Pastula, MD

Professor, Neurology Section Chief, Neuroinfectious diseases and global neurology

Maria Nagel, MD

Research Professor, Neurology Professor, Departments of Neurology & Opthamology

Yu, PhD

Associate Research Professor, Neurosurgery

Diego Restrepo,

Xiaoli

Current Research Topics

◊ Direct and downstream pathways leading to CNS damage in the neuro-inflammatory diseases: multiple sclerosis (MS), neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein associated disease (MOGAD).

◊ Signaling mechanisms that regulate oligodendrocyte differentiation and myelination

◊ Akt/mTOR pathway in oligodendrocytes, which directly regulates the amount of CNS myelin.

◊ The impact of ischemia on actively myelinating oligodendrocytes

◊ Role of B cells and their antibody products in initiating CNS damage, disrupting the blood-brain barrier and interfering with CNS repair

◊ Gene expression pathways involved in protected oligodendrocytes from ischemic damage.

◊ Demyelination induced by antibodies cloned from multiple sclerosis patients

◊ How patient derived antibodies drive demyelination and alter remyelination

◊ Gene expression in microglia and antibody-mediated demyelination.

◊ Identification of small molecules that enhance oligodendrocyte differentiation

◊ Identifying compounds that enhance oligodendrocyte differentiation in cultured cells, and that enhance remyelination in demyelinated tissue slices in culture and in animals.

◊ Interactions between virus and host in health and disease.

◊ Gamma herpesvirus interactions, particularly on virus and host mechanisms to regulate latency and reactivation

◊ Non-coding RNA regulation of primary and chronic infection.

◊ Antigen identification in optic neuritis, multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica, and ocular inflammatory disorders.

◊ Neuron-glia interactions in the adult CNS

◊ Interactions of oligodendrocyte lineage cells with neurons in the adult cerebral cortex.

◊ Immune and neuroendocrine assessments in a variety of subject populations that include both animal and human populations.

◊ Treatment approaches to mitigating distress in adult caregivers of cancer patients receiving allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplants

◊ Understanding the role of stress dysregulation in neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric diseases, and the sex differences that underlie disease vulnerability in humans using the mouse as a preclinical model.

◊ Stress sensitivity using genetic and prenatal manipulations to understand the mechanism and heritability for increased susceptibility to neurodevelopmental disorders.

◊ Effects of maternal and paternal stress on fetal development and long-term physiological and behavioral responses.

◊ Stroke, giant cell arteritis, headache, dermatomal distribution pain and facial pain syndromes due to VZV and HSV infection

◊ Optimizing diagnosis and treatment for patients with autoimmune neurological diseases; this includes the development of standardized guidelines and protocols for the diagnostic work up and treatment for autoimmune encephalitis

Clinical Spotlights

Rocky Mountain MS Center

The Rocky Mountain MS Center is a community nonprofit that is integral to the clinical and research programs at CU. The CU MS Center Center is one of the largest in the country, providing a full spectrum of treatment options, and most of the MS Research being done in the state. RMMS also includes the King Adult Day Enrichment Center, the MS Young Professionals Network, Education, Support and more.

UC Health Long Covid Clinic

With a multitude of symptoms ranging from chronic fatigue to shortness of breath, Long COVID is a challenging diagnosis. Our Long COVID specialists are up to the task and aim to provide comprehensive, up-to-date care in multiple settings. Whether you are looking for an individual provider, a multi-disciplinary clinic, access to clinical trials or support, UCHealth is here for you.

In

How the Brain May Influence Gut Health and Function. Jennifer Christie, MD, explains the connection between the brain and gut and strategies people can use to support their overall health.

Click images to read more

Long COVID Brings Focus to Mental-Physical Connection. Scientists and providers seek to understand increased psychiatric health issues post-infection.

Céline Dion’s Doctor Keeps Her Eye on the Prize: Advancing Medicine. Neurologist looks toward upcoming CAR T clinical trial and other

Paving the Way for Autoimmune Neurology Treatment With CAR T-Cell Therapy: Amanda Piquet, MD, FAAN

University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus Receives $2 Million Gift from the Céline Dion Foundation to Advance Research in Autoimmune Neurological Disorders

CU Anschutz Scientists Look to the Next Generation of Immunotherapy. Transforming Healthcare lecture series highlights efforts to expand therapy from cancer to autoimmune diseases

Colorado to become center for stiff person syndrome treatment with donation from Céline Dion

Celine Dion’s donation to hospital in Colorado aims to help find cure for stiff person syndrome

Tolebrutinib Slows Disability Progression in MS, but Elevated Liver Enzymes Need to be Monitored

Understanding Immune Regulation in Multiple Sclerosis Through NK Cells and Genetic Factors. Exploring the co-evolution of HLA molecules and KIR receptors to uncover their role in MS.

New Study Uncovers Cholesterol's Role in Worsening Multiple Sclerosis

Research reveals how statins may protect brain cells and slow disease progression, offering hope for new treatment strategies

New Drug Shows Promise in Restoring Vision for People with Nerve Damage

Research from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus reveals drug could potentially help repair vision in those with multiple sclerosis (MS) and other neurological conditions

Common Cold Sore Virus Found To Invade Brain, Potentially Triggering Alzheimer’s

CU Anschutz scientists identify key protein behind spread of shingles virus

For the first time, researchers identify the mechanism that allows the varicella zoster virus to spread far from the infection site

Silent Intruder: How the Cold Sore Virus Maps its Way Through the Brain. CU Anschutz researchers provide a better understanding of the long-term consequences of HSV-1 infection

New Findings Indicate Metabolic Dysfunction as a Driver of Immune Cell Attack to Brain Cells in Multiple Sclerosis. CU Anschutz researchers part of international team whose findings could lead to improved outcomes for those with chronic neurological disorders

Groundbreaking Stroke Study Seeks Ways to Keep Brain Cells Alive Researchers analyze blood samples taken during stroke to find treatment, diagnostic answers

Can COVID-19 Boost Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease? Early Studies Look at Links. Ongoing research across CU Anschutz Medical Campus could shed light on potential connection

The effect of viruses on neurodegenerative diseases

Click images to read more

Publications

» Abdelrahman A, Alvarez E. Advances in Multiple Sclerosis Neurotherapeutics, Neuroprotection, and Risk Mitigation Strategies. Neurol Clin. 2024 Feb;42(1):115-135. PubMed PMID: 37980110

» Akkus S, Elkhooly M, Amatya S, Shrestha K, Sharma K, Kagzi Y, Khan E, Gupta R, Piquet AL, Jaiswal S, Wen S, Tapia M, Samant R, Sista SR, Sriwastava S. Autoimmune and paraneoplastic neurological disorders: A review of relevant neuroimaging findings. Journal of the Neurological Sciences. doi:10.1016/j.jns.2023.120830

» Alvarez E, Longbrake EE, Rammohan KW, Stankiewicz J, Hersh CM. Secondary hypogammaglobulinemia in patients with multiple sclerosis on anti-CD20 therapy: Pathogenesis, risk of infection, and disease management. Mult Scler Relat Disord. 2023 Sep 15;79:105009. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 37783194

» Alvarez E, Nair KV, Tan H, Rathi K, Gabler NB, Maiese EM, Deshpande C, Shao Q. Real-world cost of care and site of care in patients with multiple sclerosis initiating infused disease-modifying therapies. J Med Econ. 2023 Jan-Dec;26(1):494-502. PubMed PMID: 36970763

» Alvarez E, Steinman L, Fox EJ, Hartung HP, Qian P, Wray S, Robertson D, Selmaj K, Wynn D, Mok K, Xu Y, Bodhinathan K, Miskin HP, Cree BAC. Improvements in no evidence of disease activity with ublituximab vs. teriflunomide in the ULTIMATE phase 3 studies in relapsing multiple sclerosis. Front Neurol. 2024;15:1473284. PubMed PMID: 39512280

» Ardakani R, Chauhan L, Piquet AL, Tyler KL, Pastula DM. An Overview of Saint Louis Encephalitis. Neurohospitalist. 2024 Apr;14(2):230231. PubMed PMID: 38666278

» Arumugam I, Rajasekaran SS, Gopalakrishnan K, Gnanaskandan S, Jeganathan SN, Athi J, Shanmugaraj R, Ramesh R, Shankar V, Krishnasamy K, Ranganathan LN, Balakrishnan U, Mahalingam R, Bubak AN, Nagel MA, Srikanth P. Diagnostic value of anti-VZV IgG in neurological diseases among varicella unvaccinated individuals. J Neurovirol. 2024 Jun;30(3):327-335. PubMed PMID: 39085748

» Bacmeister CM, Huang R, Osso LA, Thornton MA, Conant L, Chavez A, Poleg-Polsky A, Hughes EG. (2022) Motor Learning Drives Dynamic Patterns of Intermittent Myelination on Learning-activated Axons. Nature Neuroscience. 25(10):1300-1313. bioRxiv. https://doi. org/10.1101/2021.10.13.464319

» Banwell B, Bennett JL, Marignier R, Kim HJ, Brilot F, Flanagan EP, Ramanathan S, Waters P, Tenembaum S, Graves JS, Chitnis T, Brandt AU, Hemingway C, Neuteboom R, Pandit L, Reindl M, Saiz A, Sato DK, Rostasy K, Paul F, Pittock SJ, Fujihara K, Palace J. Diagnosis of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease: International MOGAD Panel proposed criteria. Lancet Neurol. 2023 Mar;22(3):268-282. PubMed PMID: 36706773

» Barrera B, Simpson H, Engebretson E, Sillau S, Valdez B, Parra-González J, Winger RC, Epperson LA, Banks A, Pierce K, Spotts M, O’Gean K, Alvarez E, Gross R, Piquet AL, Schreiner T, Corboy JR, Pei J, Vollmer TL, Nair KV. Safety and patient experience with athome infusion of ocrelizumab for multiple sclerosis. Ann Clin Transl Neurol. 2023 Apr;10(4):579-588. PubMed PMID: 36811392

» Baxter RM, Cabrera-Martinez B, Ghosh T, Rester C, Moreno MG, Borko TL, Selva S, Fleischer CL, Haakonsen N, Mayher A, Bowhay E, Evans C, Miller TM, Huey L, McWilliams J, van Bokhoven A, Deane KD, Knight V, Jordan KR, Ghosh D, Klarquist J, Kedl RM, Piquet AL, Hsieh EWY. SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine-Elicited Immunity after B Cell Depletion in Multiple Sclerosis. Immunohorizons. 2024 Mar 1;8(3):254-268. PubMed PMID: 38483384

» Beckham JD, Tyler KL. Encephalitis (Chapter 91). In: Mandell, Douglas and Bennett’s B Principles and practice of infectious diseases (10th ed). (Dolin R, Blaser M, Eds), Elsevier, Philadelphia, 2025(in press)

» Bennett JL, Costello F, Chen JJ, Petzold A, Biousse V, Newman NJ, Galetta SL. Optic neuritis and autoimmune optic neuropathies: advances in diagnosis and treatment. Lancet Neurol. 2023 Jan;22(1):89-100. PubMed PMID: 36155661

» Bennett JL, Pittock SJ, Paul F, Kim HJ, Irani SR, O’Connor KC, Patterson KR, Smith MA, Gunsior M, Mittereder N, Rees WA, Cimbora D, Cree BAC. B cell and aquaporin-4 antibody relationships with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder activity. Ann Clin Transl Neurol. 2024 Sep 2. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 39222408

» Borko TL, Baxter R, Cabrera-Martinez B, Thiruppathi E, Sabalza M, Venkataraman I, Selva S, Rester C, Sillau S, Pastula DM, Bennett JL, Alvarez E, Gross R, Shah A, Kammeyer R, Corboy JR, Kedl RM, Hsieh EWY, Piquet AL. SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination induces an antigen-specific T cell response correlating with plasma interferon-gamma in B cell depleted patients. J Neuroimmunol. 2023 Oct 15;383:578192. doi: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2023.578192. Epub 2023 Aug 29.PMID: 37666038

» Bosque PJ, Tyler KL., Prion and prion diseases of the Central nervous system (Transmissible neurodegenerative diseases) (Chapter 185). In: Mandell, Douglas and Bennett’s B Principles and practice of infectious diseases (10th ed). (Dolin R, Blaser M, Eds), Elsevier, Phila-

delphia, 2025(in press)

» Bubak AN, Coughlan C, Posey J, Saviola AJ, Niemeyer CS, Lewis SWR, Lopez SB, Solano A, Tyring SK, Delaney C, Neeves KB, Mahalingam R, Hansen KC, Nagel MA. Zoster-Associated Prothrombotic Plasma Exosomes and Increased Stroke Risk. J Infect Dis. 2023 Apr 18;227(8):993-1001. PubMed PMID: 36200236

» Bubak AN, Merle L, Niemeyer CS, Baxter BD, Gentile Polese A, Ramakrishnan V, Gomez J, Madrigal L, Villegas-Lanau A, Lopera F, Macklin W, Frietze S, Nagel MA, Restrepo D. Signatures for viral infection and inflammation in the proximal olfactory system in familial Alzheimer’s disease. Neurobiol Aging. 2023 Mar;123:75-82. PubMed PMID: 36638683

Neuroimmunology / Neurovirology / Neuroinflammation

» Callen AL, Han L, Pisani Petrucci SL, Andonov N, Lennarson P, Birlea M, O’Brien C, Wilhour D, Anderson A, Bennett JL, Carroll IR. Patterns of clinical and imaging presentations in patients with spontaneous intracranial hypotension due to spinal cerebrospinal fluid venous fistula: A single-center retrospective cross-sectional study. Headache. 2024 Sep;64(8):939-949. PubMed PMID: 39129307

» Celli SI, Nash R, Money KM, Garza M, Borko TL, Mizenko C, McMenamin C, Von Geldern G, Georges G, Piquet AL. Successful Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant in Glycine Receptor Antibody-Positive Stiff Person Syndrome: A Case Report. Neurol Neuroimmunol Neuroinflamm. 2024 Mar;11(2):e200197. PubMed PMID: 38170953

» Cissé YM, Montgomery KR, Zierden HC, Hill EM, Kane PJ, Huang W, Kane MA, Bale TL. Maternal preconception stress produces sex-specific effects at the maternal:fetal interface to impact offspring development and phenotypic outcomes†. Biol Reprod. 2024 Feb 10;110(2):339-354. PubMed PMID: 37971364

» Col N, Solomon A, Alvarez E, Pbert L, Ionete C, Berrios Morales I, Chester J, Kutz C, Iwuchukwu C, Livingston T, Springmann V, Col HV, Ngo L. Implementing Shared Decision-Making for Multiple Sclerosis: The MS-SUPPORT Tool. Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders, 2023 Oct 21 online DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.msard.2023.105092

» Corboy JR et al. Discontinuation of disease-modifying therapies in multiple sclerosis: The DISCOMS extension trial. MS Journal

» Corboy JR, Fox RJ, Kister I, Cutter GR, Morgan CJ, Seale R, Engebretson E, Gustafson T, Miller AE. Risk of new disease activity in patients with multiple sclerosis who continue or discontinue disease-modifying therapies (DISCOMS): a multicentre, randomised, single-blind, phase 4, non-inferiority trial. Lancet Neurol. 2023 Jul;22(7):568-577. doi: 10.1016/S1474-4422(23)00154-0.PMID: 37353277

» Courter RJ, Alvarez E, Enoka RM, Ahmed AA. Metabolic costs of walking and arm reaching in persons with mild multiple sclerosis. J Neurophysiol. 2023 Apr 1;129(4):819-832. PubMed PMID: 36883754

» Crane PD, Sillau S, Dreher R, Fix R, Winters P, Van Coevering R, Engebretson E, Valdez B, Matthews E, Nair KV, Carlson AM, Piquet AL. Population-Based Study of the Epidemiology of Stiff Person Syndrome in a Large Colorado-Based Health System. Neurology. 2024 Dec 24;103(12):e210078. PubMed PMID: 39621949

» Cree BAC, Kim HJ, Weinshenker BG, Pittock SJ, Wingerchuk DM, Fujihara K, Paul F, Cutter GR, Marignier R, Green AJ, Aktas O, Hartung HP, She D, Rees W, Smith M, Cimbora D, Katz E, Bennett JL. Safety and efficacy of inebilizumab for the treatment of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder: end-of-study results from the open-label period of the N-MOmentum trial. Lancet Neurol. 2024 Jun;23(6):588602. PubMed PMID: 38760098

» Cross AH, Gelfand JM, Thebault S, Bennett JL, von Büdingen HC, Cameron B, Carruthers R, Edwards K, Fallis R, Gerstein R, Giacomini PS, Greenberg B, Hafler DA, Ionete C, Kaunzner UW, Kodama L, Lock C, Longbrake EE, Musch B, Pardo G, Piehl F, Weber MS, Yuen S, Ziemssen T, Bose G, Freedman MS, Anania VG, Ramesh A, Winger RC, Jia X, Herman A, Harp C, Bar-Or A. Emerging Cerebrospinal Fluid Biomarkers of Disease Activity and Progression in Multiple Sclerosis. JAMA Neurol. 2024 Mar 11;81(4):373-83. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 38466277

» Della-Flora Nunes, G., Osso, L.A., Haynes, J.A, . et al. Hughes, E.G. Incomplete remyelination via therapeutically enhanced oligodendrogenesis is sufficient to recover visual cortical function. Nat Commun 16, 732 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-025-56092-6

» Duffy KA, Sammel MD, Johnson RL, Kim DR, Wang EY, Ewing G, Hantsoo L, Kornfield SL, Bale TL, Epperson CN. Maternal adverse childhood experiences impact fetal adrenal volume in a sex-specific manner. Biol Sex Differ. 2023 Feb 17;14(1):7. PubMed PMID: 36803442

» Duffy KA, Sammel MD, Johnson RL, Morrison KE, Bale TL, Epperson CN. Sex Differences in Stress-Induced Cortisol Response Among Infants of Mothers Exposed to Childhood Adversity. Biol Psychiatry. 2024 Dec 1;96(11):876-885. PubMed PMID: 38821195

» Frazier AP, Mitchell DN, Given KS, Hunn G, Burch AM, Childs CR, Moreno-Garcia M, Corigilano MR, Quillinan N, Macklin WB, Herson PS, Dingman AL. Chronic changes in oligodendrocyte sub-populations after middle cerebral artery occlusion in neonatal mice. Glia. 2023 Jun;71(6):1429-1450. doi: 10.1002/glia.24349. Epub 2023 Feb 16.PMID: 36794545

Neuroimmunology / Neurovirology / Neuroinflammation

» Frost J, Rudy MJ, Leser JS, Tan H, Hu Y, Wang J, Clarke P, Tyler KL. Telaprevir Treatment Reduces Paralysis in a Mouse Model of Enterovirus D68 Acute Flaccid Myelitis. J Virol. 2023 May 31;97(5):e0015623. PubMed PMID: 37154751

» George NM, Gentile Polese A, Merle L, Macklin WB, Restrepo D. Excitable Axonal Domains Adapt to Sensory Deprivation in the Olfactory System. J Neurosci. 2022 Feb 23;42(8):1491-1509. doi: 10.1523/JNEUROSCI.0305-21.2021. Epub 2022 Jan 12.PMID: 35022219

» Giovannoni G, Alvarez E, Tutton E, Hoffmann O, Xu Y, Vermersch P, Oreja-Guevara C, Trojano M, Gold R, Robles-Cedeño R, Khwaja M, Stadler B, Vandercappellen J, Ziemssen T. Development and usability testing of your MS questionnaire: A patient-based digital tool to monitor symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Digit Health. 2023 Jan-Dec;9:20552076231173531. PubMed PMID: 37205165

» Gross RH, Corboy J. De-escalation and Discontinuation of Disease-Modifying Therapies in Multiple Sclerosis. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep. 2024 Sep;24(9):341-353. doi: 10.1007/s11910-024-01355-w. Epub 2024 Jul 12. PMID: 38995483 Review.

» Gupta M, Khandelwal NK, Nelson A, Hwang P, Pourmal S, Bennett JL, Stroud RM. Structural Basis of Aquaporin-4 Autoantibody Binding in Neuromyelitis Optica. bioRxiv. 2024 May 14. PubMed PMID: 38798537

» Hickman JL, Lafreniere M, Bennett JL, Forbes E, Feuerstein J. Periodic Alternating Nystagmus, Ataxia, and Spasticity: A Unique Presentation of Spastic Paraplegia 7-Related Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia. Mov Disord Clin Pract. 2024 Apr;11(4):441-443. PubMed PMID: 38396346

» Hill, R. A., Nishiyama, A., & Hughes, E. G. (2023). Features, Fates, and Functions of Oligodendrocyte Precursor Cells. Cold Spring Harbor perspectives in biology, a041425. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1101/cshperspect.a041425

» Hua LH, Solomon AJ, Tenembaum S, Scalfari A, Rovira À, Rostasy K, Newsome SD, Marrie RA, Magyari M, Kantarci O, Hemmer B, Hemingway C, Harnegie MP, Graves JS, Cohen JA, Bove R, Banwell B, Corboy JR, Waubant E. Differential Diagnosis of Suspected Multiple Sclerosis in Pediatric and Late-Onset Populations: A Review. JAMA Neurol. 2024 Sep 16. doi: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2024.3062. Online ahead of print. PMID: 39283621

» Jellins TS, Borko TL, Otero-Bell R, Arnett K, Saunders S, Poisson SN, Orjuela KD, Salehi Omran S, Jones WJ, Leppert M, Madera A, Carlson A, Pastula DM, Sauer BM, Piquet AL, Gonzales NR. Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in medical education: DEI at the bedside. J Neurol Sci. 2024 Apr 15;459:122946. PubMed PMID: 38493733

» Jeng AC, Sibley IJ, Bale TL. A global perspective on AI innovation and effective use in the research lab. Neuroscience. 2024 Nov 12;560:106-108. PubMed PMID: 39307414

» Jewett CE, McCurdy BL, O’Toole ET, Stemm-Wolf AJ, Given KS, Lin CH, Olsen V, Martin W, Reinholdt L, Espinosa JM, Sullivan KD, Macklin WB, Prekeris R, Pearson CG. Trisomy 21 induces pericentrosomal crowding delaying primary ciliogenesis and mouse cerebellar development. Elife. 2023 Jan 19;12:e78202. doi: 10.7554/eLife.78202.PMID: 36656118

» Kammeyer R, Chapman K, Furniss A, Hsieh E, Fuhlbrigge R, Ogbu EA, Boackle S, Zell J, Nair KV, Borko TL, Cooper JC, Bennett JL, Piquet AL. Blood-based biomarkers of neuronal and glial injury in active major neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus. Lupus. 2024 Sep;33(10):1116-1129. PubMed PMID: 39148457

» Kammeyer R, Ogbu EA, Cooper JC, Stolz E, Piquet AL, Fuhlbrigge RC, Bennett JL, Hutaff-Lee C. [Formula: see text] Cognitive dysfunction in pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus: current knowledge and future directions. Child Neuropsychol. 2024 Jul;30(5):818-846. PubMed PMID: 37902575

» Kennedy PGE, George W., YU X. The elusive nature of the oligoclonal bands in multiple sclerosis. Journal of Neurology. 2024 Jan;271(1):116-124. doi: 10.1007/s00415-023-12081-7. PubMed PMID: 37945762

» Kennedy, P.G.E.; Fultz, M.; Phares, J.; Yu, X. Immunoglobulin G and Complement as Major Players in the Neurodegeneration of Multiple Sclerosis. Biomolecules 2024, 14, 1210. https://doi.org/10.3390/biom14101210

» Khandker L, Jeffries MA, Chang YJ, Mather ML, Evangelou AV, Bourne JN, Tafreshi AK, Ornelas IM, Bozdagi-Gunal O, Macklin WB, Wood TL. Cholesterol biosynthesis defines oligodendrocyte precursor heterogeneity between brain and spinal cord. Cell Rep. 2022 Mar 1;38(9):110423. doi: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.110423.PMID: 35235799

» Kister I, Curtin R, Piquet AL, Borko T, Pei J, Banbury BL, Bacon TE, Kim A, Tuen M, Velmurugu Y, Nyovanie S, Selva S, Samanovic MI, Mulligan MJ, Patskovsky Y, Priest J, Cabatingan M, Winger RC, Krogsgaard M, Silverman GJ. Longitudinal study of immunity to SARS-CoV2 in ocrelizumab-treated MS patients up to 2 years after COVID-19 vaccination. Ann Clin Transl Neurol. 2024 Jul;11(7):1750-1764. PubMed PMID: 38713096

» Kleiter I, Traboulsee A, Palace J, Yamamura T, Fujihara K, Saiz A, Javed A, Mayes D, Büdingen HV, Klingelschmitt G, Stokmaier D, Bennett JL. Long-

Neuroimmunology / Neurovirology / Neuroinflammation

term Efficacy of Satralizumab in AQP4-IgG-Seropositive Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder From SAkuraSky and SAkuraStar. Neurol Neuroimmunol Neuroinflamm. 2023 Jan;10(1). PubMed PMID: 36724181

» Korgan AC, Prendergast K, Rosenhauer AM, Morrison KE, Jovanovic T, Bale TL. Trauma and sensory systems: Biological mechanisms involving the skin and the 17q21 gene cluster. Biol Psychiatry. 2024 Nov 7. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 39521032

» Kramer AC, Jansson T, Bale TL, Powell TL. Maternal-fetal cross-talk via the placenta: influence on offspring development and metabolism. Development. 2023 Oct 15;150(20). PubMed PMID: 37831056

» Kwon S, Sillau S, Corboy JR, Nair KV, Carlson AM. Shifting patterns of multiple sclerosis treatment in a highly prevalent United States population. Ann Clin Transl Neurol. 2024 Jun;11(6):1526-1534. doi: 10.1002/acn3.52069. Epub 2024 Apr 23. PMID: 38654416

» Lane TR, Fu J, Sherry B, Tarbet B, Hurst BL, Riabova O, Kazakova E, Egorova A, Clarke P, Leser JS, Frost J, Rudy M, Tyler KL, Klose T, Volobueva AS, Belyaevskaya SV, Zarubaev VV, Kuhn RJ, Makarov V, Ekins S. Efficacy of an isoxazole-3-carboxamide analog of pleconaril in mouse models of Enterovirus-D68 and Coxsackie B5. Antiviral Res. 2023 Aug;216:105654. PubMed PMID: 37327878

» Lee ST, Abboud H, Irani SR, Nakajima H, Piquet AL, Pittock SJ, Yeh EA, Wang J, Rajan S, Overell J, Smith J, St Lambert J, El-Khairi M, Gafarova M, Gelfand JM. Innovation and optimization in autoimmune encephalitis trials: the design and rationale for the Phase 3, randomized study of satralizumab in patients with NMDAR-IgG-antibody-positive or LGI1-IgG-antibody-positive autoimmune encephalitis (CIELO). Front Neurol. 2024;15:1437913. PubMed PMID: 39193150

» Leser JS, Frost JL, Wilson CJ, Rudy MJ, Clarke P, Tyler KL. VP1 is the primary determinant of neuropathogenesis in a mouse model of enterovirus D68 acute flaccid myelitis. J Virol. 2024 Jul 23;98(7):e0039724. PubMed PMID: 38869283

» Marin AI, Zarubina AV, Bennett JL, Subramanian PS. Seropositive Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder Presenting With Optic Nerve Sheath Enhancement and Optic Disc Edema Resembling Optic Nerve Sheath Meningioma. J Neuroophthalmol. 2024 Sep 1;44(3):e350-e352. PubMed PMID: 37247229

» Mañago MM, Cohen ET, Alvarez E, Hager ER, Owens JG, Bade M. Feasibility of Low-Load Resistance Training Using Blood Flow Restriction for People With Advanced Multiple Sclerosis: A Prospective Cohort Study. Phys Ther. 2024 Jan 1;104(1). PubMed PMID: 37815934

» Money KM, Chauhan L, Piquet AL, Tyler KL, Pastula DM. An Overview of Japanese Encephalitis. Neurohospitalist. 2023 Jul;13(3):328330. PubMed PMID: 37441216

» Montgomery KR, Bridi MS, Folts LM, Marx-Rattner R, Zierden HC, Wulff AB, Kodjo EA, Thompson SM, Bale TL. Chemogenetic activation of CRF neurons as a model of chronic stress produces sex-specific physiological and behavioral effects. Neuropsychopharmacology. 2024 Jan;49(2):443-454. PubMed PMID: 37833589

» Moon N, Morgan CP, Marx-Rattner R, Jeng A, Johnson RL, Chikezie I, Mannella C, Sammel MD, Epperson CN, Bale TL. Stress increases sperm respiration and motility in mice and men. Nat Commun. 2024 Sep 11;15(1):7900. PubMed PMID: 39261485

» Morgan CP, Meadows VE, Marx-Rattner R, Cisse YM, Bale TL. HA-tag CD63 is a novel conditional transgenic approach to track extracellular vesicle interactions with sperm and their transfer at conception. Sci Rep. 2023 Jan 13;13(1):707. PubMed PMID: 36639735

» Niemeyer CS, Frietze S, Coughlan C, Lewis SWR, Bustos Lopez S, Saviola AJ, Hansen KC, Medina EM, Hassell JE Jr, Kogut S, TrainaDorge V, Nagel MA, Bruce KD, Restrepo D, Mahalingam R, Bubak AN. Suppression of the host antiviral response by non-infectious varicella zoster virus extracellular vesicles. J Virol. 2024 Aug 20;98(8):e0084824. PubMed PMID: 39051773

» Niemeyer CS, Harlander-Locke M, Bubak AN, Rzasa-Lynn R, Birlea M. Trigeminal Postherpetic Neuralgia: From Pathophysiology to Treatment. Curr Pain Headache Rep. 2024 Apr;28(4):295-306. PubMed PMID: 38261232

» Niemeyer CS, Merle L, Bubak AN, Baxter BD, Gentile Polese A, Colon-Reyes K, Vang S, Hassell JE Jr, Bruce KD, Nagel MA, Restrepo D. Olfactory and trigeminal routes of HSV-1 CNS infection with regional microglial heterogeneity. J Virol. 2024 Nov 19;98(11):e0096824. PubMed PMID: 39475273

» Niemeyer CS, Traina-Dorge V, Doyle-Meyers L, Das A, Looper J, Mescher T, Feia B, Medina E, Nagel MA, Mahalingam R, Bubak AN. Simian varicella virus infection and reactivation in rhesus macaques trigger cytokine and Aß40/42 alterations in serum and cerebrospinal fluid. J Neurovirol. 2024 Feb;30(1):86-99. PubMed PMID: 38453879

» Osso, L.A., Hughes, E.G. Dynamics of mature myelin. Nature Neuroscience (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41593-024-01642-2

» Owens GP, Fellin TJ, Matschulat A, Salas V, Schaller KL, Given KS, Ritchie AM, Navarro A, Blauth K, Hughes EG, Macklin WB, Bennett JL. Pathogenic myelin-specific antibodies in multiple sclerosis target conformational proteolipid protein 1-anchored membrane domains. J Clin Invest. 2023 Oct 2;133(19):e162731. doi: 10.1172/JCI162731. PMID: 37561592 Free PMC article.

» Pastula D, Tyler KL. Coltiviruses (Colorado Tick Fever Virus) and Seadornaviruses (Chapter 156). In: Mandell, Douglas and Bennett’s B Principles and practice of infectious diseases (10th ed). (Dolin R, Blaser M, Eds), Elsevier, Philadelphia, 2025(in press)

» Pastula DM, Beckham JD, Tyler KL. Oropouche Virus: An Emerging Neuroinvasive Arbovirus. Ann Neurol. 2024 Nov 19. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 39560215

» Pisani Petrucci SL, Andonov N, Lennarson P, Birlea M, O’Brien C, Wilhour D, Anderson A, Bennett JL, Callen AL. Assessing the Diagnostic Value of Brain White Matter Hyperintensities and Clinical Symptoms in Predicting the Detection of CSF Venous Fistula in Patients with Suspected Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol. 2024 Oct 23. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 39443147

Neuroimmunology / Neurovirology / Neuroinflammation

» Pittock SJ, Barnett M, Bennett JL, Berthele A, de Sèze J, Levy M, Nakashima I, Oreja-Guevara C, Palace J, Paul F, Pozzilli C, Yountz M, Allen K, Mashhoon Y, Kim HJ. Ravulizumab in Aquaporin-4-Positive Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder. Ann Neurol. 2023 Jun;93(6):1053-1068. PubMed PMID: 36866852

» Quinn CM, Rajarajan P, Gill AJ, Kopinsky H, Wolf AB, de Camargo CS, Lamb J, Bacon TE, Murray JC, Probasco JC, Galetta KM, Kantor D, Coyle P, Bhise V, Alvarez E, Conway SE, Bhattacharyya S, Kister I. Neurologic Outcomes in People With Multiple Sclerosis Treated With Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors for Oncologic Indications. Neurology. 2024 Dec 10;103(11):e210003. PubMed PMID: 39541548

» Roberts JA, Kapadia RK, Pastula DM, Thakur KT. Public health trends in neurologically relevant infections: a global perspective. Ther Adv Infect Dis. 2024 Jan-Dec;11:20499361241274206. PubMed PMID: 39301451

» Robertson CD, Davis P, Richardson RR, Iffland PH 2nd, Vieira DCO, Steyert M, McKeon PN, Romanowski AJ, Crutcher G, Jašarevic E, Wolff SBE, Mathur BN, Crino PB, Bale TL, Dick IE, Poulopoulos A. Rapid modeling of an ultra-rare epilepsy variant in wild-type mice by in utero prime editing. bioRxiv. 2023 Dec 19. PubMed PMID: 38106154

» Rock KD, Folts LM, Zierden HC, Marx-Rattner R, Leu NA, Nugent BM, Bale TL. Developmental transcriptomic patterns can be altered by transgenic overexpression of Uty. Sci Rep. 2023 Nov 30;13(1):21082. PubMed PMID: 38030664

» Rudy M, Wilson CJ, Hinckley B, Baker DC, Royal JM, Hoke MP, Brennan MB, Vogt, M, Clarke P, Tyler KL. EV68-228-N monoclonal antibody treatment halts progression in a mouse model of EV-D68 induced acute flaccid myelitis. mBio (03906-24, in press), 2025.

» Samadzadeh S, Adnan R, Berglova P, Barzegar M, Debrabant B, Roikjaer SG, Levy M, Petzold A, Palace J, Flanagan EP, Mariotto S, Skou ST, Froelich A, Lotan I, Messina S, Geraldes R, Asseyer S, Stiebel-Kalish H, Oertel FC, Shaygannejad V, Sahraian MA, Kim HJ, Bennett JL, Böttcher C, Zimmermann HG, Weinshenker BG, Paul F, Asgari N. Protocol of a prospective multicenter study on comorbidity impact on multiple sclerosis and antibody-mediated diseases of the central nervous system (COMMIT). Front Immunol. 2024;15:1380025. PubMed PMID: 39021565

» Shafit-Zagardo B, Sidoli S, Goldman JE, DuBois JC, Corboy JR, Strittmatter SM, Guzik H, Edema U, Arackal AG, Botbol YM, Merheb E, Nagra RM, Graff S. TMEM106B Puncta Is Increased in Multiple Sclerosis Plaques, and Reduced Protein in Mice Results in Delayed Lipid Clearance Following CNS Injury. Cells. 2023 Jun 27;12(13):1734. doi: 10.3390/cells12131734.PMID: 37443768

» Shinoda K, Li R, Rezk A, Mexhitaj I, Patterson KR, Kakara M, Zuroff L, Bennett JL, von Büdingen HC, Carruthers R, Edwards KR, Fallis R, Giacomini PS, Greenberg BM, Hafler DA, Ionete C, Kaunzner UW, Lock CB, Longbrake EE, Pardo G, Piehl F, Weber MS, Ziemssen T, Jacobs D, Gelfand JM, Cross AH, Cameron B, Musch B, Winger RC, Jia X, Harp CT, Herman A, Bar-Or A. Differential effects of anti-CD20 therapy on CD4 and CD8 T cells and implication of CD20-expressing CD8 T cells in MS disease activity. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2023 Jan 17;120(3):e2207291120. PubMed PMID: 36634138

» Solomon AJ, Arrambide G, Brownlee WJ, Flanagan EP, Amato MP, Amezcua L, Banwell BL, Barkhof F, Corboy JR, Correale J, Fujihara K, Graves J, Harnegie MP, Hemmer B, Lechner-Scott J, Marrie RA, Newsome SD, Rocca MA, Royal W 3rd, Waubant EL, Yamout B, Cohen JA. Differential diagnosis of suspected multiple sclerosis: an updated consensus approach. Lancet Neurol. 2023 Aug;22(8):750768. doi: 10.1016/S1474-4422(23)00148-5.PMID: 37479377

» Thornton, M. A., Futia, G. L., Stockton, M. E., Budoff, S. A., Ramirez, A. N., Ozbay, B., Tzang, O., Kilborn, K., Alon Poleg-Polsky, Restrepo, D., Gibson, E. A., & Hughes, E. G. (2024). Long-termin vivothree-photon imaging reveals region-specific differences in healthy and regenerative oligodendrogenesis. Nature Neuroscience. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41593-024-01613-7; bioRxiv. https://doi. org/10.1101/2023.10.29.564636

» Thornton, MA, Futia GL, Stockton ME, Ozbay BN, Kilborn K, Restrepo D, Gibson EA*, Hughes, EG*. (2022) Characterization of red fluorescent reporters for dual-color in vivo three-photon microscopy. Neurophotonics. 9(3), 031912.

» Tuddenham JF, Taga M, Haage V, Marshe VS, Roostaei T, White C, Lee AJ, Fujita M, Khairallah A, Zhang Y, Green G, Hyman B, Frosch M, Hopp S, Beach TG, Serrano GE, Corboy J, Habib N, Klein HU, Soni RK, Teich AF, Hickman RA, Alcalay RN, Shneider N, Schneider J, Sims PA, Bennett DA, Olah M, Menon V, De Jager PL. A cross-disease resource of living human microglia identifies disease-enriched subsets and tool compounds recapitulating microglial states. Nat Neurosci. 2024 Dec;27(12):2521-2537. doi: 10.1038/s41593-024-01764-7. Epub 2024 Oct 15. PMID: 39406950

» Tyler KL. Annual Report from the Editor-in-Chief (2023). Ann Neurol. 2023 Dec 8. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed

PMID: 38065680

» Tyler KL. Orthoreoviruses and orbiviruses (Chapter 155).

In: Mandell, Douglas and Bennett’s B Principles and practice of infectious diseases (10th ed). (Dolin R, Blaser M, Eds), Elsevier, Philadelphia, 2025(in press)

Neuroimmunology / Neurovirology / Neuroinflammation

» Vervloet Sollero CE, Piquet AL, Robinson C, Gyang TV, Carlson A. Anti-NMDA Receptor Encephalitis Related to Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Case Report. Neurohospitalist. 2024 Apr;14(2):189-194. PubMed PMID: 38666271

» Vragel G, Gomez BD, Kostelecky RE, Noell KS, Tseng A, Cohen S, Dalwadi M, Medina EM, Nail EA, Goodspeed A, Clambey ET, van Dyk LF. Murine Gammaherpesvirus 68 Efficiently Infects Myeloid Cells Resulting In An Atypical, Restricted Form Of Infection. bioRxiv [Preprint]. 2023 Jun 29:2023.06.21.545948. doi: 10.1101/2023.06.21.545948.PMID: 37425871

» Wolf AB, Alvarez E, Corboy JR. Comparative Efficacy of Disease-Modifying Treatments for Relapsing Multiple Sclerosis-Variations in Real-World Experience. JAMA Neurol. 2024 Jan 1;81(1):87. doi: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2023.4395. PMID: 37983039

» Wolf AB, Corboy JR. Escalation to Anti-CD20 Treatment for Multiple Sclerosis Following Natalizumab-Associated Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy. Neurol Clin Pract. 2024 Oct;14(5):e200330. doi: 10.1212/CPJ.0000000000200330. Epub 2024 Jun 10. PMID: 38919933

» Wolf AB, Money KM, Chandnani A, Daley CL, Griffith DE, Chauhan L, Coffman N, Piquet AL, Tyler KL, Zimmer SM, Montague BT, Mann S, Pastula DM. Mycobacterium abscessus Meningitis Associated with Stem Cell Treatment During Medical Tourism. Emerg Infect Dis. 2023 Aug;29(8):1655-1658. PubMed PMID: 37486227

» Xu J, Erlendsson S, Singh M, Holling GA, Regier M, Ibiricu I, Einstein J, Hantak MP, Day GS, Piquet AL, Smith TL, Clardy SL, Whiteley AM, Feschotte C, Briggs JAG, Shepherd JD. PNMA2 forms immunogenic non-enveloped virus-like capsids associated with paraneoplastic neurological syndrome. Cell. 2024 Feb 15;187(4):831-845.e19. PubMed PMID: 38301645

» Yandamuri SS, Filipek B, Lele N, Cohen I, Bennett JL, Nowak RJ, Sotirchos ES, Longbrake EE, Mace EM, O’Connor KC. A Noncanonical CD56dimCD16dim/- NK Cell Subset Indicative of Prior Cytotoxic Activity Is Elevated in Patients with Autoantibody-Mediated Neurologic Diseases. J Immunol. 2024 Mar 1;212(5):785-800. PubMed PMID: 38251887

» Zhou W, Graner M, Beseler C, Domashevich T, Selva S, Webster G, Ledreux A, Zizzo Z, Lundt M, Alvarez E, Yu X. Plasma IgG aggregates as biomarkers for multiple sclerosis. Clin Immunol. 2023 Nov;256:109801. PubMed PMID: 37816415

» Zhou W, Graner M, Paucek P, Beseler C, Boisen M, Bubak A, Asturias F, George W, Graner A, Ormond D, Vollmer T, Alvarez E, Yu X. Multiple sclerosis plasma IgG aggregates induce complement-dependent neuronal apoptosis. Cell Death Dis. 2023 Apr 8;14(4):254. PubMed PMID: 37031195

» Zierden HC, Marx-Rattner R, Rock KD, Montgomery KR, Anastasiadis P, Folts L, Bale TL. Extracellular vesicles are dynamic regulators of maternal glucose homeostasis during pregnancy. Sci Rep. 2023 Mar 20;13(1):4568. PubMed PMID: 36941297

PROGRAM FIVE Neuro Injury, Rehabilitation & Repair / Pain Medicine

A neurological injury is any damage or dysfunction affecting the brain, spinal cord, or nerves. These injuries can be caused by trauma, disease, or other factors. Common types include traumatic brain injuries (TBI), spinal cord injuries (SCI), and peripheral nerve damage. Symptoms can vary widely depending on the location and severity of the injury, and may include changes in consciousness, speech, movement, sensation, or cognitive function.

A Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is an injury to the brain caused by an external force, often a blow or jolt to the head. It can range in severity from mild concussions to severe injuries with lasting physical, cognitive, and emotional effects. TBI’s are classified as mild (concussion), moderate, and severe. The effects of a TBI can be temporary or permanent, and the specific consequences vary depending on the individual, the cause, and the location of the injury.

Acquired Brain Injuries are not caused by trauma but by internal factors like stroke, lack of oxygen, tumors, or infections.

Neurological rehabilitation, or neurorehabilitation, is a specialized healthcare process that helps individuals regain their physical, cognitive, and emotional abilities after a neurological injury or disorder. It focuses on maximizing independence and improving quality of life for individuals with conditions like stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, and various other neurological diseases. The modalities often include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, cognitive therapy, psychological counseling, and sometimes alternative therapies such as music, art, dance, drama, or expressive arts. Technology also plays a role, such as computer-based cognitive training, virtual reality applications, and brain-computer interfaces.

“Neuro repair” refers to the restoration of damaged or injured neurons and nervous tissue, which can involve surgical procedures like nerve repair, nerve grafts, or nerve transfers, as well as research into bioscaffolds and other regenerative therapies. Researchers are actively using materials that can guide

nerve regeneration, as well as stem cells, growth factors, the creation of cell platforms and engineered tissues, such as brain organoids, 3D printed neural tissue, proteins like IGF-1 and osteonpontin for axon regrowth.

Nerve pain, also known as neuropathic pain, is pain caused by damage to or dysfunction of the nervous system. This damage can occur in the peripheral nerves (outside the brain and spinal cord) or in the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). The pain can be described as burning, shooting, tingling, or numbness, and it may be constant or come and go. There are many contributing factors, including diabetis, infections, autoimmune diseases, trauma, injury, alcohol abuse, certain medications, nutritional deficiencies, cancer and Multiple Sclerosis. A large portion of patients who have chronic pain are those with spinal pain which can be caused by disc problems, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, fracture vertebrae, and other causes.

Another common population of patients with chronic pain include those with migraine headaches. Migraine is a common neurological condition characterized by recurrent headaches, often with other symptoms like sensory disturbances (aura) and sensitivity to light and sound. These attacks can last from 4 hours to 3 days, and while some people experience them frequently, others have them less often. Migraines and headaches are distinct conditions, although both involve head pain. Migraines are neurological disorders that can cause severe headaches, while headaches are more broadly defined and can range in severity and cause. Key differences include pain intensity, associated symptoms, and potential triggers.

Conditions we treat and study

Neuro Injury, Rehabilitation & Repair / Pain Medicine

Program Leadership

William Jones, MD

Associate Professor, Neurology Co-director, UCHealth Comprehensive Stroke Center

Kathleen Flarity, DNP Executive Director, Marcus Institute for Brain Health Visiting Professor, Emergency Medicine

Michael Greher, PhD Professor of Clinical Practice, Neurosurgery Director, Neuropsychology Training Program

Sharon Poisson, MD Professor, Neurology Co-director, UCHealth Comprehensive Stroke Center

Robert Neumann, MD

Associate Professor, Neurosurgery Director, Neuro-Intensive Care Unit

Prem Subramanian, MD, PhD

Professor and Chief, Department of Opthamology

Delia Bakeman, DO Assistant Professor, Neurology NeuropsychiatristBehavioral Neurology Department

Nidia Quillinan, PhD Associate Professor, Anesthesiology

Lisa Brenner, PhD Professor, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Psychiatry, and Neurology

Vik Bebarta, MD Professor, Emergency Medicine – Medical Toxicology and Pharmacology Founder, Director CU Center for COMBAT Research Co-Director, Marcus Institute for Brain Health

Michael Cripps, MD Professor, Surgery, Trauma & Endocrine Surgery Director, Trauma and Acute Care Surgery

Cathy Bodine, PhD, CCC-SLP

Associate Professor & Section Head Departments of PM&R and Pediatrics Executive Director, CU Assistive Technology Partners Executive Director, Colemen Institute for Cognitive Disabilities, CU

Neuro Injury, Rehabilitation & Repair / Pain Medicine

Leadership, continued

Nathan Odom, MD

Assistant Professor, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

Michael HarrisLove, PT, MPT, DSc, FGSA, FAPTA

Associate Dean & Professor, Physical Therapy Physical Therapy Program Director

Joshua Seinfeld, MD Professor, Neurosurgery Director, Endovascular Neurosurgery

David Arciniegas, MD Professor, Neurology

Mike Dichiaro, MD

Associate Professor of Clinical Practice Pediatric Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Childrens Hospital Colorado Concussion Clinic

Christopher Roark, MD

Associate Professor, Neurosurgery Neurosurgery Inpatient Medical Director UCHealth Stroke and Brain Aneurism Center

William Niehaus, MD

Associate Professor, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

Jeff Hebert, PhD, PT

Associate Professor, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Research Director, Marcus Institute for Brain Health

Benjamin Usatch, MD

Assistant Professor, Emergency Medicine Medical Director, Emergency Medicine, UCHealth Highlands Ranch Hospital

Kelly Bookman, MD Professor, Emergency Medicine

Andrew C. Smith, PT, DPT, PhD

Principal Investigator and Director, Spinal Cord Injury Imaging Research Laboratory (SCIRL)

David Howell, PhD Associate Professor, Orthopedics Research Director, Children’s Hospital Colorado Sports Medicine Center Director, Colorado Concussion Research Laboratory Director, Clinical Research, Department of Orthopedics

Current Research Topics

◊ The diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, and prevention of concussions.

◊ The role of physical activity and aerobic exercise to optimize healing after a concussion.

◊ Movement deficits after a concussion.

◊ Predictors of recovery and future injury risk after a concussion.

◊ The physiology underlying post-injury deficits, and how treatment can modify physiological markers of function.

◊ How sleep affects post-concussion recovery and clinical presentation.

◊ How cervical spine dysfunction modulates post-concussion recovery.

◊ Patient-specific factors that affect short-and long-term recovery.

◊ Mental health difficulties which are experienced throughout recovery and beyond.

◊ Neurodegneration and Neurouinflammation in traumatic brain injury

◊ Biomarkers and probability of recovery in severe brain injury patients

◊ Intraventricular Hemorrhage on Early CT Predicts Poorer Short- and Longterm Outcome in Moderate to Severe Traumatic Brain Injury

◊ Acute recovery of consciousness in comatose patients: Impact of reversal of lateral brain displacement and radiologic herniation

◊ Eye movement control and brain imaging in military Veterans with prior mild traumatic brain injury compared to Veterans without history of brain injury.

◊ Irritability, standing balance and auditory processing, including brain imaging in military Veterans with prior mild traumatic brain injury compared to Veterans without history of brain injury.

◊ Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) in persons with prior mild traumatic brain injury (concussion) compared to people without history of concussion or POTS.

◊ Prognosis and treatment of individuals with spinal cord injuries

◊ Use of medical imaging to to investigate the extent of spinal cord injury and its impact on motor and sensory function,

◊ Use of magnetic resonance imaging to improve the mechanistic understanding of responsiveness to spinal cord stimulation in individuals with spinal cord injury, and convolutional neural networks to automate segmentation processes of neuromusculoskeletal imaging.

◊ Excitability and plasticity changes in the brain following cerebral ischemia.

◊ Cerebellar networks affected by stroke and cardiac arrest.

◊ Role of sex hormones and their receptors in acute neuronal injury and longterm hippocampal function.

◊ Headache and inflammation

◊ Infectious causes of headache

◊ Behavioral implications with headache

◊ Headache and associated cardio-vascular problems

◊ Headache after trauma

Clinical Spotlights

Marcus Institute for Brain Health

Marcus Institute for Brain Health on the CU Anschutz Campus is a clinical care and research institute for traumatic brain injury (TBI) and psychological health (PH) conditions such as post-traumatic stress (PTS). Our mission is to deliver in-depth, interdisciplinary precision medicine to Active Service Members, Veterans, and First Responders with ongoing symptoms

Concussion Program at Children’s Hospital Colorado

Concussions can be scary for kids and families, but we have the experience and compassion to help children and teens feel like themselves again. Pediatric experts in our Concussion Program specialize in evaluating and treating children, adolescents and young athletes who may have experienced a concussion or other type of mild traumatic brain injury. Our program brings together experts from many medical specialties to provide your child the concussion care they need. This includes pediatric experts from sports medicine, rehabilitation, neuropsychology, rehabilitation psychology and physical therapy.

We also work closely with certified athletic trainers in many local schools and sports clubs to provide direct care for young athletes, including on-field medical evaluations.

Traumatic Brain Injury Care Across the Lifespan

A Project of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

With over 5 million Americans living with traumatic brain injury (TBI)-related disability, TBI represents a major public health issue. TBI is now recognized as a chronic condition, with life-long health implications. Individuals with TBI have more health issues than the general population and greater need for effective health promotion to prevent secondary conditions. However, most TBI-related research is focused on identifying new knowledge regarding basic science. Insufficient time and resources have been allocated to exploring strategies aimed at assisting TBI survivors and their caregivers to negotiate long-term recovery. Improving patient outcomes and supporting long-term recovery demands the collaboration of scientists, clinicians, and those living with and caring for those with TBI.

The TBI program at the University of Colorado will advance patient-centered outcomes for adults living with moderate to severe TBI through building a national coalition of patient and stakeholder partners. We will work with the Coalition for Recovery and Innovation in Traumatic Brain Injury Care Across the Lifespan (CRITICAL) to develop resources for empowering individuals with cognitive impairments to collaborate on research. Second, the CRITICAL will lead the formation of a new patient-centered research agenda.

Concussions and Sports Medicine

The high volume of patients we see makes us one of the most knowledgeable and experienced team of providers in the region—and among the best in the country.

The primary concussion team includes boardcertified pediatric experts in emergency medicine, sports medicine, neurosurgery, rehabilitation, and neuropsychology. They are joined by certified athletic trainers and occupational and physical therapists with special training in treating concussions.

This multidisciplinary team offers a unique, streamlined, and comprehensive approach that tailors treatment to each individual patient’s needs.

Spinal Cord Injuries

The University of Colorado Spine Center is unique in the region, offering the latest options and answers. It is part of a multidisciplinary multi-institutional spine program, including the University of Colorado Hospital (UCH), the neurosurgical spine service at The Veterans Administration Medical Center (VAMC), the Denver Health Medical Center (DHMC) and Children’s Hospital Colorado.

The spine service is a comprehensive program, offering the individual an opportunity to be evaluated for first line therapies for spine and neck issues prior to being referred for surgical consultation. This allows for the exploration of more conservative treatments before surgery is considered.

Neuronal Injury Program

A Program of the Department of Anesthesiology

The Neuronal Injury Program is a collaborative multidisciplinary group of PhD and MD faculty from various departments at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. Although primarily a research program, the neuronal injury program enhances and informs our clinical programs. By combining in vivoanimal models of ischemic/ traumatic brain injury, neurophysiology, neurobehavioral, histological and molecular approaches we hope to identify targets to improve functional outcome after an insult to the brain. Current projects in our lab focus on ion channel involvement in injury, with a particular emphasis on synaptic plasticity deficits in the hippocampus and cerebellum. We combine this with in vivo pharmacological and genetic manipulations to improve memory or motor function. We also study the contribution of agedependent neuronal and glial responses to differences in recovery between juveniles and adults.

Headache/Pain

Medicine

Department of Neurology Clinical Practice

When patients are seen for headaches in doctors’ offices or in the Emergency room, the type of headache they are experiencing may be primary or secondary. The vast majority of headaches are primary headaches, meaning that no cause is identified. Migraine is the most common primary type of headache found in patients seen in outpatient clinics. Migraine is a disorder of the brain, with involvement of the blood vessels, nerves and other pain sensitive structures. It is uncertain what causes the cascade of events in the brain that eventually leads to migraine pain and associated symptoms. People who experience migraine headaches tend to have a lower threshold for activation of pain pathways compared to other individuals. These biological differences are often inherited. A specific (secondary) cause of headaches can be found and eliminated in only a small percentage of patients who suffer from headaches. It is a critical part of our job as neurologists to identify the secondary causes of head or face pains. To obtain the best outcomes for patients, our clinic brings together top expertise and the state-of-the art resources to appropriately treat underlying causes of patients’ symptoms.

Cerebral Spinal Fluid (CSF) Leak Program at CU Anschutz

The University of Colorado CSF Leak Program specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH). SIH is a headache disorder caused by leakage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the spine, and is characterized mainly by headache symptoms that are worse when upright and improved when lying flat. In addition to headache, patients also often describe a sense of pressure, ringing in their ears, changes in vision or hearing, dizziness, forgetfulness, or personality changes.

Brain Injury Specialists at UCHospital

Mild traumatic brain injury, like a concussion, may only cause temporary changes to the brain.

Moderate to severe traumatic brain injury can result in more permanent changes to the brain due to bruising, torn tissues, bleeding and other physical damage to the brain.

Seek help if you, or someone you know has experienced a head injury and develops any of the following symptoms, call 911 and seek help immediately.

◊ Headache that gets progressively worse

◊ Loss of consciousness for more than 30 seconds

◊ Convulsions

◊ Numbness in the face, arms or legs

◊ Obvious decline in mental health function or behavior

◊ Repeated vomiting

◊ Vision disturbances or unequal pupil size

UCHealth Neurology Clinic at Central Park

Delia Bakeman, DO, Traumatic Brain Injury Specialist is a neuropsychiatrist with a holistic view of the brain. She attempts to understand not only the disease but the person and the impact the disease has had on their life and functioning. Her main focus is in neurorehabilitation and the promotion of new neural pathways after traumatic brain injury, stroke, neuroinflammatory diseases, and neurodegeneration.

Neurocritical Care at UCHospital

The Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit (Neuro ICU) at University of Colorado Hospital (UCH) is a regional referral center, and the only dedicated neurocritical care unit in the Rocky Mountain region. It is staffed twenty four hours per day with highly specialized nurses and directed by three fellowship-trained neurocritical care specialists who are board certified by both United Council for Neurologic Subspecialties (UCNS) and Committee on Advanced Subspecialty Training (CAST). The 24-bed Neuro ICU had over 1,300 admissions to our Neurosurgical ICU last year. We cater to those patients who need highly specialized, multi-disciplinary care.

Neuro Trauma at UCHospital

Neurotrauma describes two complex conditions: acquired brain injury (ABI) and spinal cord injury (SCI). Both are life-changing and can lead to significant ongoing chronic conditions.

Acquired brain injury can result in problems with attention, planning and interacting with others. Spinal cord injury can lead to permanent paralysis. People who have ABI or SCI may require assistance to carry out activities of daily living. ABI and SCI can also be linked to significant mental health issues, but not always. Early intervention and intensive care can make a difference in the long term outcomes.

CU Sports Medicine & Performance Center

The CU Sports Medicine and Performance Center was formed with staff from Boulder Center for Sports Medicine/ Boulder Community Health and CU School of Medicine in August of 2015. All of our physicians, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners are CU SOM employees. All of our physical therapists, imaging staff, physician support staff, outreach athletic trainers and front desk staff are BCH employees. This gives our patients the benefits of both Boulder Community Health and the University of Colorado Medicine with a large depth of resources. We are a 50/50 joint venture between BCH and CU SOM.

In the news...

Bob Saget’s Death from Accidental Head Trauma Brings Awareness of Signs to Look for Following Head Injury. Michael Cripps, MD, says to watch for symptoms that don’t fade.

New Research Leads to Updated Guidelines on Preventing Strokes. A CU School of Medicine vascular neurologist says stroke is a leading cause of disability in the U.S.

Voices & Strides: Advocating for Global Rehabilitation & Forecasting SCI Mobility

RehabCast: The Rehabilitation Medicine Update

Golden Synapse Award from the Journal of Neurologic Physical Therapy

Association of Traditional and Nontraditional Risk Factors in the Development of Strokes Among Young Adults by Sex and Age Group: A Retrospective Case-Control Study

Adjunctive Middle Meningeal Artery Embolization for Subdural Hematoma

Polaris Program Enlists CU Professors to Study Vision Changes in Astronauts. Prem Subramanian, MD, PhD, professor of ophthalmology at the Sue Anschutz-Rodgers Eye Center, will use high-tech ocular equipment to monitor the four-person Polaris Dawn crew to investigate why eyes change in space.

How Does Space Travel Affect the Eyes?

CU researchers collaborate on studies to understand the effects of long-duration space missions on the human body

Online therapy aims to ease insomnia for people with traumatic brain injuries. Insomnia frequently travels with people who have sustained traumatic brain injuries, but getting treatment can be a challenge. A University of Colorado trial investigates if a computerized therapy program could help patients and narrow the access gap.

UCHealth spine surgeon helps woman walk again. Barb Kotzian was born with achondroplasia, commonly known as dwarfism. Her complex spinal stenosis put her in a wheel chair. Her condition and COVID-19 made it almost impossible to find help, until she met UCHealth’s Dr. CJ Kleck.

Colorado ranks 9th in the nation in traumatic brain injury deaths. Recent data shows more attention and resources are needed to address the issue in the state

Battered brains: Traumatic brain injuries in the heart of Colorado’s mountains outpace state, national averages

In

the news...

Veterans and service members facing traumatic brain injuries find support through Operation TBI Freedom. Operation TBII Freedom offers resources and care to help military personnel cope with invisible injuries that change lives.

How Medical Treatments Devised for War Can Quickly Be Implemented in US Hospitals to Save Lives

Military Standout Brings Strength to Women in Medicine. CU Anschutz leader teaches peers the definition of resilience.

DOD Grants Transformative Award to CU Researchers Studying Trauma in South Africa

Nee-Kofi Mould-Millman, MD, PhD, MSCS, will lead a team to investigate important questions, practices, and guidelines related to trauma resuscitation in a resource-constrained prolonged care environment, with dual benefit to civilians and U.S. service members in combat.

A Quick Return to School and Light Exercise May Help Kids Recover From Concussions

More Intense Exercise Reduces Post-Concussion Anxiety in Teens, Study Finds New research conducted by CU School of Medicine faculty and students suggests embracing moderate to vigorous movement after a concussion can benefit mental health during the recovery process.

Mouthguards Protect Your Mouth—and Potentially Your Brain—from Sports-Related Injuries

Can This Device Prevent a Stroke During a Heart Valve Operation? New Research Shows Potential Benefit. CU faculty member

Neel Butala, MD, was the first author of a new study that analyzed how effective a cerebral embolic protection device is at reducing stroke among patients getting a transcatheter aortic valve replacement.

New Treatments Offer Much-Needed Hope for Patients Suffering From Chronic Pain. New treatments for pain are on the horizon, but for many sufferers of chronic pain, they can’t arrive soon enough.

Former CU Nursing Grad Transforms Life After Near-Fatal Cycling Accident. Terry Chase finds new reason to live and serve after surffering from a broken back.

Can an App Help Improve Recovery From a Concussion?

Researchers examine whether a virtual training program can bridge rehabilitation gap, reduce risk of future injury

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Neuro Injury, Rehabilitation & Repair / Pain Medicine

Zero-gravity physical therapy tool helps patients restore function after a stroke, injury or surgery

Click images to read more

How 150 Minutes of Exercise a Week Can Help Concussion Sufferers Get Better Sleep David Howell, PhD, and team published the research in the Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation.

Publications

» Aaronson AL, Smith B, Krese K, Barnhart M, Adamson M, de Wit H, Philip NS, Brenner LA, Bender-Pape T, Herrold AA. Impulsivity and Psychiatric Diagnoses as Mediators of Suicidal Ideation and Suicide Attempts Among Veterans With Traumatic Brain Injury. J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci. 2024 Spring;36(2):125-133. PubMed PMID: 38192217

» Alazzam AM, Balance WB, Smith AC, Rejc E, Weber KA, Trainer R, Gorgey AS. The use of peak slope ratio to identify standing configurations following percutaneous epidural stimulation in persons with spinal cord injury. Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2024;13(5):1344. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13051344

» Amsalem D, Haim-Nachum S, Lazarov A, Levi-Belz Y, Markowitz JC, Bergman M, Rafaeli AK, Brenner LA, Nacasch N, Wainberg M, Lurie I, Mendlovic S, Neria Y. Brief video intervention to increase treatment-seeking among individuals living in a conflict zone: A randomized controlled trial. Psychiatry Res. 2025 Jan;343:116280. PubMed PMID: 39608194

» Armento AM, Brna M, Seehusen C, McCarthy A, VanBaak KD, Howell DR. Examination of Sex Differences in Energy Availability, Disordered Eating, and Compulsive Exercise Among Male and Female Adolescent Athletes. Clin J Sport Med. 2024 Nov 21. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 39570011

» Baldwin D, Arana AA, Savell SC, Cutright J, Medellin K, Castaneda M, Bebarta VS, Davis WT, Maddry JK, Ng PC. A Descriptive Study of Casualties Evacuated Out of Afghanistan by Critical Care Air Transport Teams During the Withdrawal of U.S. Troops. Mil Med. 2024 May 18;189(5-6):e1226-e1229. PubMed PMID: 37703066

» Barber K, Nikolis A, Machek M, Akuthota V, Odom N. Traumatic Injuries from Low Speed Vehicles and Golf Carts: A Scoping Review. Am J Phys Med Rehabil. 2024 Aug 16. doi: 10.1097/PHM.0000000000002609. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39163537.

» Bellen BA, Lee JS, Johnson E, Schmoekel N, McIntyre R Jr, Cripps M, McVicker J, Schroeppel T. Less is more: Streamlining management of isolated traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage in the modified brain injury guidelines. Am J Surg. 2024 Dec;238:115973. PubMed PMID: 39332106

» Bernanke A, Hasley R, Sabetfakhri N, de Wit H, Smith BM, Wang L, Brenner LA, Hanlon C, Philip NS, Ajilore O, Herrold A, Aaronson A. Frontal Pole Neuromodulation for Impulsivity and Suicidality in Veterans With Mild Traumatic Brain Injury and Common Co-Occurring

Neuro Injury, Rehabilitation & Repair / Pain Medicine

Mental Health Conditions: Protocol for a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Res Protoc. 2024 Dec 13;13:e58206. PubMed PMID: 39671573

» Burch AM, Garcia JD, O’Leary H, Haas A, Orfila JE, Tiemeier E, Chalmers N, Smith KR, Quillinan N, Herson PS. TRPM2 and CaMKII Signaling Drives Excessive GABAergic Synaptic Inhibition Following Ischemia. J Neurosci. 2024 May 8;44(19). PubMed PMID: 38565288

» Callen AL, Pattee J, Thaker AA, Timpone VM, Zander DA, Turner R, Birlea M, Wilhour D, O’Brien C, Evan J, Grassia F, Carroll IR. Relationship of Bern Score, Spinal Elastance, and Opening Pressure in Patients With Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension. Neurology. 2023 May 30;100(22):e2237-e2246. PubMed PMID: 37015821

» Carlisle TC, Birlea M, Restrepo D, Filley CM. Headache-Associated Phantosmia as a Harbinger of Lewy Body Dementia. J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci. 2023 Winter;35(1):92-97. PubMed PMID: 35989571

» Chen H, Subramanian PS. Conversion of Superior Oblique Myokymia to Superior Oblique Neuromyotonia in a Patient With History of Superior Oblique Palsy. J Neuroophthalmol. 2024 Mar 1;44(1):e190-e191. PubMed PMID: 37389971

» Chen JJ, McNussen PJ, Lee AG, Subramanian PS. Re: Pakravan et al.: Demographics, practice analysis and geographic distribution of neuro-ophthalmologists in the United States in 2023 (Ophthalmology. 2024;131:333-340). Ophthalmology. 2024 Apr;131(4):e17-e18. PubMed PMID: 38189696

» Chesler KC, Howell DR, Khodaee M, Pierpoint LA, Comstock RD, Provance AJ. Are Different Aged Youth Skiers and Snowboarders Experiencing Different Injury Characteristics?. Wilderness Environ Med. 2023 Jan 5. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 36610917

» Cho YW, Scrushy M, Zhu M, DeAtkine E, Zhu M, Wan B, Fesmire A, Cripps M, Park C. Early administration of high dose enoxaparin after traumatic brain injury. Eur J Trauma Emerg Surg. 2023 Oct;49(5):2295-2303. PubMed PMID: 37405447

» Complications in Orthopedics: Spine Surgery Chapter: Spinal Cord Injury

» Connery AK, Lee AH, Peterson RL, Dichiaro M, Chiesa A. Caregiver report of social-emotional functioning in infants and young children after inflicted traumatic brain injury. Child Neuropsychol. 2024 Aug;30(6):954-966. PubMed PMID: 38214531

» Daley MM, Howell DR, Lanois CJ, Berkner PD, Mannix RC, Oldham JR, Meehan WP 3rd. Concussion Symptoms and Neurocognitive Performance of Children and Adolescents on Antidepressants. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2024 Jun 1;56(6):1018-1025. PubMed PMID: 38233981

» Douin DJ, Dylla L, Anderson EL, Rice JD, Jackson CL, Bebarta VS, Neumann RT, Schauer SG, Ginde AA. Hyperoxia is associated with a greater risk for mortality in critically ill traumatic brain injury patients than in critically ill trauma patients without brain injury. Sci Prog. 2023 Jan-Mar;106(1):368504231160416. PubMed PMID: 36879502

» Dylla L, Higgins HM, Stephenson D, Reisz JA, Vu T, Poisson SN, Herson PS, Monte AA. Sex Differences in the Blood Metabolome During Acute Response to Ischemic Stroke. J Womens Health (Larchmt). 2024 Oct;33(10):1378-1384. PubMed PMID: 38946610

» Eisenhauer I, April MD, Rizzo JA, Fisher AD, Maddry JK, Bebarta VS, Schauer SG. Seasonal Association With Hypothermia in Combat Trauma. Mil Med. 2024 Aug 30;189(9-10):2004-2008. PubMed PMID: 38015941

» Farrar JE, Stefanos SS, Cava L, Kiser TH, Mueller SW, Neumann R, Reynolds PM, Sherman DS, MacLaren R. Correlation Between Serum and CSF Concentrations of Midazolam and 1-Hydroxy-Midazolam in Critically Ill Neurosurgical Patients. Ann Pharmacother. 2024 Aug

» Flarity K, Haylett WJ, Childers M. Content Validation of an Emergency Department Skin Risk Assessment Instrument. Adv Emerg Nurs J. 2023 Oct-Dec 01;45(4):311-320. PubMed PMID: 37885085

» Flarity K, Stanley I, April MD. Strengthening the Psychological Health and Readiness of Military Critical Care Nurses for Disaster and Future Combat Environments. Crit Care Nurse. 2024 Oct 1;44(5):53-57. PubMed PMID: 39348926

» Fuller RG, Kikla EM, Fawcett APW, Hesling JD, Keenan S, Flarity KM, Patzkowski MS, April MD, Bebarta VS, Schauer SG. Low-dose ketamine for acute pain: A narrative review. Am J Emerg Med. 2024 Dec;86:41-55. PubMed PMID: 39326173

» Garcia JD, Wolfe SE, Stewart AR, Tiemeier E, Gookin SE, Guerrero MB, Quillinan N, Smith KR. Distinct mechanisms drive sequential internalization and degradation of GABA(A)Rs during global ischemia and reperfusion injury. iScience. 2023 Oct 20;26(10):108061. PubMed PMID: 37860758

» Gehrz JA, Kay VC, Grady DW, Emerling AD, McGowan A, Reilly ER, Bebarta VS, Nassiri J, Viñals J, Zarow GJ, Auten JD. The relationship between intraosseous catheter tip placement, flow rates, and infusion pressures in a high bone density cadaveric swine (Sus scrofa) model. J Am Coll Emerg Physicians Open. 2024 Aug;5(4):e13184. PubMed PMID: 38966284

» Gibbs KW, Semler MW, Driver BE, Seitz KP, Stempek SB, Taylor C, Resnick-Ault D, White HD, Gandotra S, Doerschug KC, Mohamed A, Prekker ME, Khan A, Gaillard JP, Andrea L, Aggarwal NR, Brainard JC, Barnett LH, Halliday SJ, Blinder V, Dagan A, Whitson MR,

Neuro Injury, Rehabilitation & Repair / Pain Medicine

Schauer SG, Walker JE Jr, Barker AB, Palakshappa JA, Muhs A, Wozniak JM, Kramer PJ, Withers C, Ghamande SA, Russell DW, Schwartz A, Moskowitz A, Hansen SJ, Allada G, Goranson JK, Fein DG, Sottile PD, Kelly N, Alwood SM, Long MT, Malhotra R, Shapiro NI, Page DB, Long BJ, Thomas CB, Trent SA, Janz DR, Rice TW, Self WH, Bebarta VS, Lloyd BD, Rhoads J, Womack K, Imhoff B, Ginde AA, Casey JD. Noninvasive Ventilation for Preoxygenation during Emergency Intubation. N Engl J Med. 2024 Jun 20;390(23):2165-2177. PubMed PMID: 38869091

» Goldstein KE, Pietrzak RH, Challman KN, Chu KW, Beck KD, Brenner LA, Interian A, Myers CE, Shafritz KM, Szeszko PR, Goodman M, Haznedar MM, Hazlett EA. Multi-modal risk factors differentiate suicide attempters from ideators in military veterans with major depressive disorder. J Affect Disord. 2025 Jan 15;369:588-598. PubMed PMID: 39341292

» Haut ER, Sakran JV, Bulger EM, Bebarta VS. Invited Commentary: We Must Do Better: How Hospitals Should Prepare and Respond to Mass Shootings in America. J Am Coll Surg. 2023 Jan 1;236(1):175-177. PubMed PMID: 36102568

» Higgins HM, Chen L, Ravare BC, Jeppson KA, Bina HT, Herson PS, Monte AA, Poisson SN, Dylla L. Response to: Acute ischemic stroke and cardioemboli: Does sex matter?. Am J Emerg Med. 2023 Dec;74:170-171. PubMed PMID: 37867013

» Hoffman JE, Morel B, Wittenberg B, Kumpe D, Seinfeld J, Folzenlogen Z, Case D, Neumann R, Cava L, Breeze R, Wiley, Roark C. Periprocedural management of ruptured blister aneurysms treated with pipeline flow diversion. Surg Neuro Intl. 08Mar2024 15:73. DOI: 10.25259/SNI_482_2023

» Hornor M, Khan U, Cripps MW, Cook Chapman A, Knight-Davis J, Puzio TJ, Joseph B. Futility in acute care surgery: first do no harm. Trauma Surg Acute Care Open. 2023;8(1):e001167. PubMed PMID: 37780455

» Howell DR, Wingerson MJ, Smulligan KL, Magliato S, Simon S, Wilson JC. Exercising More Than 150 min/wk After Concussion Is Associated With Sleep Quality Improvements. J Head Trauma Rehabil. 2023 Nov 6. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 38032838

» Interian A, Myers CE, Brenner LA, Sweeney R, Osterberg T, Reddy V, Barnhart M, Hill LS, Miller RB, Beck KD, Cominski TP, Chan CC, Shafritz KM, Goodman MS, Hazlett EA. Choice and motor impulsivity in Veterans with mild traumatic brain injury with and without history of suicide attempt. Psychiatry Res. 2024 Dec;342:116265. PubMed PMID: 39591742

» Jalili J, Nadimi M, Jafari B, Esfandiari A, Mojarad M, Subramanian PS, Aghsaei Fard M. Vessel Density Features of Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography for Classification of Optic Neuropathies Using Machine Learning. J Neuroophthalmol. 2024 Mar 1;44(1):4146. PubMed PMID: 37440373

» Khazanov G, Spitzer E, Thomas S, Brenner LA, Simonetti JA. Financial barriers and facilitators to secure firearm and medication storage among veterans with elevated suicide risk: a qualitative study. Inj Prev. 2025 Jan 23;31(1):73-76. PubMed PMID: 38724234

» Kinney AR, Brenner LA, Nance M, Mignogna J, Cobb AD, Forster JE, Ulmer CS, Nakase-Richardson R, Bahraini NH. Decisional Needs of Veterans With Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Initiating Treatment for Insomnia Disorder and Obstructive Sleep Apnea. J Head Trauma Rehabil. 2024 Jul 3. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 39019488

» Kinney AR, Brenner LA, Nance M, Mignogna J, Cobb AD, Forster JE, Ulmer CS, Nakase-Richardson R, Bahraini NH. Factors influencing shared decision-making for insomnia and obstructive sleep apnea treatment among Veterans with mild traumatic brain injury. J Clin Sleep Med. 2024 May 1;20(5):801-812. PubMed PMID: 38189353

» Kinney AR, Penzenik ME, Forster JE, O’Donnell F, Brenner LA. Facility-Level and Racial Disparities in Access to Inpatient Psychiatric Occupational Therapy Services in the Veterans Health Administration. Am J Occup Ther. 2024 Jul 1;78(4). PubMed PMID: 38861552

» Kinney AR, Schneider AL, King SE, Yan XD, Forster JE, Bahraini NH, Brenner LA. Identifying and Predicting Subgroups of Veterans With Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Based on Distinct Configurations of Postconcussive Symptom Endorsement: A Latent Class Analysis. J Head Trauma Rehabil. 2024 Jul-Aug 01;39(4):247-257. PubMed PMID: 38259092

» Kowalski RG, Ledreux A, Violette J, Neumann R, Grotta JC, Ornelas D, Thompson JA, Monte A, Dylla L, Coughlan C, et al. Abstract 106: Circulating interleukin-6 levels early during active stroke estimate time of stroke onset: Potential new clinical biomarker tool from a mobile stroke unit. Stroke. 2024;55

» Kowalski RG, Ledreux A, Violette JE, Neumann RT, Ornelas D, Yu X, Griffiths SG, Lewis S, Nash P, Monte AA, Coughlan CM, Deighan C,

Neuro

Injury, Rehabilitation & Repair / Pain Medicine

Grotta JC, Jones WJ, Graner MW. Rapid Activation of Neuroinflammation in Stroke: Plasma and Extracellular Vesicles Obtained on a Mobile Stroke Unit. Stroke. 2023 Mar;54(3):e52-e57. doi: 10.1161/STROKEAHA.122.041422. Epub 2023 Feb 2. PMID: 36727508.

» Kowalski RG, Ledreux A, Violette JE, Neumann RT, Ornelas D, Yu X, Griffiths SG, Lewis S, Nash P, Monte AA, Coughlan CM, Deighan C, Grotta JC, Jones WJ, Graner MW. Rapid Activation of Neuroinflammation in Stroke: Plasma and Extracellular Vesicles Obtained on a Mobile Stroke Unit. Stroke. 2023 Mar;54(3):e52-e57. PubMed PMID: 36727508

» Kowalski RG. Comparison of the university of colorado mobile stroke treatment unit with standard management for evaluation and treatment of acute ischemic stroke. [Order No. 31489329]. University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus; 2024.

» Kowalski, RG; Ledreux A; Violette J; Neumann R; Grotta JC; Ornelas D; Thompson JA; Monte A; Dylla L; Coughlan C; Yu, X; Graner M; Jones W. Circulating Interleukin-6 Levels Early During Active Stroke Estimate Time of Stroke Onset: Potential New Clinical Biomarker Tool From a Mobile Stroke Unit. Stroke 1Feb2024. doi/10.1161/str.55.suppl_1.106

» Leppert MH, Poisson SN, Scarbro S, Suresh K, Lisabeth LD, Putaala J, Schwamm LH, Daugherty SL, Bradley CJ, Burke JF, Ho PM. Association of Traditional and Nontraditional Risk Factors in the Development of Strokes Among Young Adults by Sex and Age Group: A Retrospective Case-Control Study. Circ Cardiovasc Qual Outcomes. 2024 Apr;17(4):e010307. PubMed PMID: 38529631

» Liu RKK, Howell DR, Pierpoint LA, Little CC, Spittler J, Khodaee M, Provance A. SalterHarris fractures in paediatric skiers and snowboarders. Res Sports Med. 2024 Jul-Aug;32(4):648-655. PubMed PMID: 37221842

» MacLaren R, Farrar J, Stefanos SS, Cava L, Kiser T, Mueller S, Neumann RT, Reynolds P, Sherman D. 993: SERUM AND CSF CONCENTRATIONS OF MIDAZOLAM AND 1-HYDROXY-MIDAZOLAM IN NEUROSURGICAL PATIENTS WITH EVD. Critical Care Medicine 52(1):p S468, January 2024. | DOI: 10.1097/01.ccm.0001002136.61707.77

» Maddux AB, Cox-Martin M, Dichiaro M, Bennett TD. The Association Between the Functional Status Scale and the Pediatric Functional Independence Measure in Children Who Survive Traumatic Brain Injury. Pediatr Crit Care Med. 2018 Nov;19(11):1046-1053. PubMed PMID: 30119094

» Magliato SN, Wingerson MJ, Smulligan KL, Little CC, Lugade V, Wilson JC, Howell DR. Virtual Neuromuscular Training Among Physically Active Young Adults: A Feasibility Study. J Sport Rehabil. 2024 Oct 7;:1-7. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 39374925

» Miller SM, Valovich McLeod TC, Zaslow TL, Wilson JC, Master CL, Snedden TR, Halstead ME, Grady MF, Fazekas ML, Santana JA, Coel RA, Howell DR. Utility of a Clinical Prediction Tool for Persisting Postconcussive Symptoms in a Multicenter Sample of Youth Athletes With Concussion: The Sport Concussion Outcomes in Pediatrics (SCOPE) Study. Am J Sports Med. 2023 Nov;51(13):3546-3553. PubMed PMID: 37794642

» Morales TI, Stamper CE, Brenner LA. High molar ratios of tumor necrosis factor a (TNF a) soluble receptors I and II to the TNF ligand in human plasma from male veterans with comorbid posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). Eur J Psychiatry. 2023 Jul-Sep;37(3):141-148. PubMed PMID: 37577070

» Morel, B., Hoffman, J., Folzenlogen, Z., Roark, C., Seinfeld, J., & Case, D. (2023). O-035 Endovascular treatment of cerebral venous thrombosis involving the deep venous system. SNIS 20th Annual Meeting Oral Abstracts.

» Navi BB, Bach I, Czap AL, Wang M, Yamal JM, Jacob AP, Parker SA, Rajan SS, Mir S, Sherman C, Willey JZ, Saver JL, Gonzalez MO, Singh N, Jones WJ, Ornelas D, Gonzales NR, Alexandrov AW, Alexandrov AV, Nour M, Spokoyny I, Mackey J, Collins SQ, Silnes K, Fink ME, English J, Barazangi N, Bratina PL, Volpi J, Rao CPV, Griffin L, Persse D, Grotta JC. Strokes Averted by Intravenous Thrombolysis: A Secondary Analysis of a Prospective, Multicenter, Controlled Trial of Mobile Stroke Units. Ann Neurol. 2024 Feb;95(2):347361. PubMed PMID: 37801480

» O’Neil ME, Krushnic D, Clauss K, Baker-Robinson W, Hannon S, Cameron DC, Cook L, Niederhausen M, Kaplan J, Brenner LA. Harmonizing federal interagency traumatic brain injury research data to examine depression and suicide-related outcomes. Rehabil Psychol. 2024 May;69(2):159-170. PubMed PMID: 38512179

» Oldham JR, Howell DR, Lanois CJ, Berkner PD, Iverson GL, Mannix RC, Meehan WP 3rd. Baseline Symptoms and Neurocognitive Performance Across Collision, Contact, and Non-Contact Female High School Athletes. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2024 Aug 12. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 39140797

» Oshima K, Siddiqui N, Orfila JE, Carter D, Laing J, Han X, Zakharevich I, Iozzo RV, Ghasabyan A, Moore H, Zhang F, Linhardt RJ, Moore EE, Quillinan N, Schmidt EP,

Neuro Injury, Rehabilitation & Repair / Pain Medicine

Herson PS, Hippensteel JA. A role for decorin in improving motor deficits after traumatic brain injury. Matrix Biol. 2024 Jan;125:88-99. PubMed PMID: 38135163

» Park C, Loza-Avalos SE, Harvey J, Hirschkorn C, Dultz LA, Dumas RP, Sanders D, Chowdhry V, Starr A, Cripps M. A Real-Time Automated Machine Learning Algorithm for Predicting Mortality in Trauma Patients: Survey Says it’s Ready for Prime-Time. Am Surg. 2024 Apr;90(4):655-661. PubMed PMID: 37848176

» Paulson MW, Rossetto M, McKay JT, Bebarta VS, Flarity K, Keenan S, Schauer SG. Association of Prehospital Neck Wound Survivability and Battlefield Medical Evacuation Time in Afghanistan. Mil Med. 2023 Nov 8;188(Suppl 6):185-191. PubMed PMID: 37948214

» Petranovich CL, Koerber S, Sarmiento C, Graber S, Dichiaro M, Wilson P, Miele A, Peterson RL, Simpson T, Connery AK, Kirkwood MW, Apkon S. Emotional well-being in transition-age adults with pediatric-onset disabilities: A cross-sectional study. Rehabil Psychol. 2025 Jan 13. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 39804397

» Petranovich CL, Person-Jones K, Koerber S, Lantagne A, Graber S, Sarmiento CA, Peterson RL, Simpson T, Wilson P, Miele A, Apkon S, Dichiaro M, Connery AK, Kirkwood MW. Health Care, Educational, and Vocational Transitions in Young Adults With Pediatric-Onset Disabilities: Associations With Social Determinants of Health. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2024 Dec 20. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 39710332

» Pirlog BO, Jacob AP, Rajan SS, Yamal JM, Parker SA, Wang M, Bowry R, Czap A, Bratina PL, Gonzalez MO, Singh N, Zou J, Gonzales NR, Jones WJ, Alexandrov AW, Alexandrov AV, Navi BB, Nour M, Spokoyny I, Mackey J, Silnes K, Fink ME, Pisarro Sherman C, Willey J, Saver JL, English J, Barazangi N, Ornelas D, Volpi J, Pv Rao C, Griffin L, Persse D, Grotta JC. Outcomes of patients with pre-existing disability managed by mobile stroke units: A sub-analysis of the BEST-MSU study. Int J Stroke. 2023 Jul 5;:17474930231185471. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 37337357

» Prato TA, Lynall RC, Howell DR, Lugade V. Validity and Reliability of an Integrated Smartphone Measurement Approach for Balance. J Sport Rehabil. 2024 Nov 18;:1-7. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 39557038

» Roberts J, Wilson JC, Halstead ME, Miller SM, Santana JA, Valovich McLeod TC, Zaslow TL, Master CL, Grady MF, Snedden TR, Fazekas ML, Coel RA, Howell DR. Variables associated with days of school missed following concussion: results from the Sport Concussion Outcomes in PEdiatrics (SCOPE) study. Phys Sportsmed. 2024 Dec;52(6):592-600. PubMed PMID: 38648009

» Ross LK, Lalka A, Keeter C, Hamati MC, Robell K, Howell DR, Zona NE, Hunt KJ. Playing surface and sport contact status modulate time to lower extremity musculoskeletal injury at a greater level than concussion history among collegiate student-athletes. J ISAKOS. 2024 Aug;9(4):628-634. PubMed PMID: 38925353

» Schönberg NKT, Poppel J, Howell D, Wagner J, Höfinger M, Fabri N, Bonke EM, Rojczyk P, Hösl M, Kiwull L, Schröder SA, Blaschek A, Vill K, Koerte IK, Huppert D, Heinen F, Bonfert MV. Instrumented Balance Error Scoring System in Children and Adolescents-A Cross Sectional Study. Diagnostics (Basel). 2024 Feb 28;14(5). PubMed PMID: 38472985

» Simpson JR, VanCoevering RJ 3rd, Jeppson K, Case D, Seinfeld J, Roark C, Poisson SN. Clinical Decision Support for Patients Presenting With Large Vessel Occlusion. Neurohospitalist. 2024 Apr;14(2):182-185. PubMed PMID: 38666277

» Smith AC, Draganich C, Thornton WA, Berliner JC, Lennarson PJ, Rejc E, Sevigny M, Charlifue S, Tefertiller C, Weber KA. A single dermatome clinical prediction rule for independent walking one year after spinal cord injury. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. 2024;105(1):10-19

» Smulligan KL, Carry P, Smith AC, Esopenko C, Baugh CM, Wilson JC, Howell DR. Cervical spine proprioception and vestibular/oculomotor function: An observational study comparing young adults with and without a concussion history. Phys Ther Sport. 2024 Sep;69:3339. PubMed PMID: 39013262

» Smulligan KL, Magliato SN, Keeter CL, Wingerson MJ, Smith AC, Wilson JC, Howell DR. The Diagnostic Utility of Cervical Spine Proprioception for Adolescent Concussion. Clin J Sport Med. 2024 Jul 2. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 38953712

» Snider SB, Deng H, Hammond FM, et al. Time to Command-Following and Outcomes After Traumatic Brain Injury. JAMA Netw Open. 2024;7(12):e2449928. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.49928

» Snider SB, Temkin NR, Barber J, Edlow BL, Giacino JT, Hammond FM, Izzy S, Kowalski RG, Markowitz AJ, Rovito CA, Shih SL, Zafonte RD, Manley GT, Bodien YG; TRACK-TBI Investigators. Predicting Functional Dependency in Patients with Disorders of Consciousness: A TBI-Model Systems and TRACK-TBI Study. medRxiv [Preprint]. 2023 Mar 15:2023.03.14.23287249. doi: 10.1101/2023.03.14.23287249. PMID: 36993195; PMCID: PMC10055467.

» Sommers S, Wendel S, Greig A, Barbour A, Griffith R, Magdaleno M, Skaggs M, Michael S, Bookman K, Tolle H, Hoppe J. Improved outpatient follow-up after implementation of emergency department-based physical therapy. Acad Emerg Med. 2024 Oct;31(10):1062-1064. PubMed PMID: 38881276

» Sullan MJ, Kinney AR, Stearns-Yoder KA, Reis DJ, Saldyt EG, Forster JE, Cogan CM, Bahraini NH, Brenner LA. A randomized clinical trial for a self-guided sleep intervention following moderate-severe traumatic brain injury: Study protocol. Contemp Clin Trials. 2024 Jun;141:107525. PubMed PMID: 38604497

» Sullan MJ, Stearns-Yoder KA, Wang Z, Hoisington AJ, Bramoweth AD, Carr W, Ge Y, Galfalvy H, Haghighi F, Brenner LA. Study protocol: Identifying transcriptional regulatory alterations of chronic effects of blast and disturbed sleep in United States Veterans. PLoS One. 2024;19(3):e0301026. PubMed PMID: 38536869

Neuro Injury, Rehabilitation & Repair / Pain Medicine

» Sweeney, Emily A.1,2; Rodenberg, Richard E.3,4; Howell, David R.1,2; MacDonald, James P.3,4. The Prevalence of Spondylolysis and the Diagnostic Sensitivity of Radiography in Adolescent Low Back Pain. Exercise, Sport, and Movement 2(4):e00025, Fall 2024. | DOI: 10.1249/ESM.0000000000000025

» Taheri BD, Fisher AD, Eisenhauer IF, April MD, Rizzo JA, Guliani SS, Flarity KM, Cripps M, Bebarta VS, Wohlauer MV, Schauer SG. The employment of resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta in deployed settings. Transfusion. 2024 May;64 Suppl 2:S19-S26. PubMed PMID: 38581267

» Thornton WA, Marzloff G, Ryder S, Best A, Rasheed K, Coons D, Smith AC. The presence or absence of midsagittal tissue bridges and walking: a retrospective cohort study in spinal cord injury. Spinal Cord. 2023. doi: 10.1038/s41393-023-00890-6.

» Trujeque J, Dudley RA, Mesfin N, Ingraham NE, Ortiz I, Bangerter A, Chakraborty A, Schutte D, Yeung J, Liu Y, Woodward-Abel A, Bromley E, Zhang R, Brenner LA, Simonetti JA. Comparison of six natural language processing approaches to assessing firearm access in Veterans Health Administration electronic health records. J Am Med Inform Assoc. 2025 Jan 1;32(1):113-118. PubMed PMID: 39530748

» Vranic JE, Harker P, Stapleton CJ, Regenhardt RW, Dmytriw AA, Doron OM, Alotaibi NM, Leslie-Mazwi TM, Gupta R, Berglar IK, Tan CO, Koch MJ, Raymond SB, Mascitelli JR, Patterson TT, Seinfeld J, White A, Case D, Roark C, Gandhi CD, Al-Mufti F, Cooper J, Matouk C, Sujijantarat N, Devia DA, Ocampo-Navia MI, Villamizar-Torres DE, Puentes JC, Patel AB. The Impact of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy Duration on Unruptured Aneurysm Occlusion After Flow Diversion: A Multicenter Study. J Comput Assist Tomogr. 2023 Sep-Oct 01;47(5):753-758. PubMed PMID: 37707405

» Wendel SK, Whitcomb M, Solomon A, Swafford A, Youngwerth J, Wiler JL, Bookman K. Emergency department hospice care pathway associated with decreased ED and hospital length of stay. Am J Emerg Med. 2024 Feb;76:99-104. PubMed PMID: 38039564

» Wendel SK, Wogu AF, Carlson NE, Beaty L, Bennett TD, Bookman K, Mayer DA, Michael SM, Molina KC, Peers JL, Russell S, Zane RD, Ginde AA. Effectiveness of subcutaneous monoclonal antibody treatment in emergency department outpatients with COVID-19. J Am Coll Emerg Physicians Open. 2024 Feb;5(1):e13116. PubMed PMID: 38384380

» Wingerson MJ, Hunt DL, Wilson JC, Mannix RC, Meehan WP, Howell DR. Factors Associated with Symptom Resolution after Aerobic Exercise Intervention in Adolescent and Young Adults with Concussion. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2023 Dec 13. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 38109187

» Wingerson MJ, Schmitz B, Smulligan KL, Walker GA, Magliato S, Wilson JC, Howell DR. Concussion symptom presentation and clinical recovery among pediatric athletes: comparing concussions sustained during school and summer months. Brain Inj. 2024 Jun 6;38(7):574-582. PubMed PMID: 38511887

» Wingerson MJ, Wilson JC, Seehusen CN, Walker GA, Howell DR. Patient Characteristics Predictive of Immediate and Delayed Word Recall Performance Following Adolescent Concussion. Int J Sports Med. 2023 Jan;44(1):72-77. PubMed PMID: 36096148

» Wyrwa JM, Hoffberg AS, Stearns-Yoder KA, Lantagne AC, Kinney AR, Reis DJ, Brenner LA. Predicting Recovery After Concussion in Pediatric Patients: A Meta-Analysis. Pediatrics. 2024 Sep 1;154(3). PubMed PMID: 39183674

» Zuleger TM, Slutsky-Ganesh AB, Grooms DR, Yuan W, Barber Foss KD, Howell DR, Myer GD, Diekfuss JA. High magnitude exposure to repetitive head impacts alters female adolescent brain activity for lower extremity motor control. Brain Res. 2024 Apr 1;1828:148785. PubMed PMID: 38272157

PROGRAM SIX Neural Circuitry, Seizure and Addiction Science

Aneural circuit is a population of neurons interconnected by synapses to carry out a specific function when activated. Multiple neural circuits interconnect with one another to form large scale brain networks

Large-scale brain networks (also known as intrinsic brain networks) are collections of widespread brain regions showing functional connectivity by statistical analysis of the fMRI BOLD signal or other recording methods such as EEG, PET and MEG. An emerging paradigm in neuroscience is that cognitive tasks are performed not by individual brain regions working in isolation but by networks consisting of several discrete brain regions that are said to be “functionally connected.”

There are various models that identify these self-organized coalitions that we now call networks. Some of these areas include: the somato network, the default network, the visual network, the cognitive network, the task positive network, etc.

Disruption in various networks has been implicated in neuropsychiatric diseases, various addictions, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s Disease, Huntington’s Disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), frontotemporal lobar degeneration, ADHD, and even epilepsy.

The field of neural circuitry is huge and covers numerous departments, conditions, researchers and students. It overlaps with many of our other program areas, such as neuro degeneration, neuro modulation and neuro development. But for the purposes of the Neuroscience Innovation Initiative we have “lumped” the basic sciences across various departments into this program area.

Seizures are sudden, usually temporary, disturbances of the brain’s electrical activity. Seizures may cause changes in behavior, movement, or consciousness and there are numerous types of seizures. Focal seizures affect a specific area of the brain. Generalized seizures affect both sides of the brain. Tonic-clonic seizures are characterized by muscle stiffening and a loss of consciousness. Absence seizures are characterized by starting spells and brief lapses in awareness. Status elipepticus is the term used when a seizure lasts more than five minutes, is considered a medical emergency, and can

Neural Circuitry, Seizure and Addiction Science

lead to serious complications if not treated immediately. All of these various types of seizures are often described as “electrical storms” in the brain, thus the categorization under neural circuitry.

Addiction Science is the transdisciplinary scientific study of the nature, causes, consequences, prevention, and treatment of all types of addiction-related phenomena. Because of the complexity of addiction, this specialized field of study includes integrative anthropology, medicine, public health, statistics – and (of course) neuroscience. The overall goal is to understand how addictions manifest and the mechanistic basis of the root-causes.

Most drugs and addictive behaviors disrupt the “reward circuit” in the brain, causing a flood of dopamine. Over time, more and more of the drug or behavior is needed to feel the euphoria that comes with a surge in dopamine. Long term addictions cause changes in other brain chemicals and circuits and can lead to dysfunctional learning, judgement, decision-making, memory and behavior.

Conditions we treat and study

Alzheimer’s disease

Parkinson’s disease

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

Frontotemporal lobar degenerations

Epilepsy

Stroke

Spinal cord injury

Multiple sclerosis

Cerebral palsy

Spasticity and movement disorders

Schizophrenia

Depression

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)

Anxiety disorders

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Bipolar disorder

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Huntington’s chorea

Tourette’s syndrome

Disorders related to cognitive control

Alcohol use disorders

Reading impairments

Neural Circuitry, Seizure and Addiction Science

Program Leadership

Chris Ford, PhD

Professor, Department of Pharmacology

Jody Tanabe, MD Professor, Radiology Neuroradiologist

Abigail Person, PhD

Professor Co-Director, Neuroscience Program Dept of Physiology & Biophysics

Jason Aoto, PhD

Associate Professor, Pharmacology

Naveed Chaudry, MD

Assistant Professor, Neurology Director, Epilepsy Monitoring Unit

Joseph Schacht, PhD

Associate Professor, Psychiatry-Substance Abuse

Won Chan Oh, PhD

Associate Professor, Pharmacology

Joshua Gowin, PhD

Assistant Professor, Radiology

Alexis Ritvo, MD, MPH

Assistant Professor, Psychiatry -CeDAR Program Director, Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship

Manisha Patel, PhD

Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Studies

Professor, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences

Neural Circuitry, Seizure and Addiction Science

Current Research Topics

◊ To understand the role of redox processes and metabolic mechanisms in epilepsy, aging and toxicant-induced brain injury.

◊ Using biochemical, metabolic, transgenic and translational approaches to understand three major areas: a) the mechanisms of redox and metabolic dysfunction in response to epileptogenic insults, b) developing neuroprotective drugs and therapies and c) identifying metabolic targets of ketogenic diets.

◊ How neuromodulators such as dopamine and serotonin regulate neuronal wiring.

◊ Whether early dysregulation of neuromodulatory signaling gives rise to the pathogeneses of neurological disorders such as autism, schizophrenia, and depression.

◊ How neuromodulators are encoded in the mesolimbic and nigrostriatal systems.

◊ Using the combination of electrophysiology, 2-photon imaging, optogenetics, genetically encoded optical sensors, electrochemistry and behavioral approaches to study how synaptic transmission mediated by these neuromodulators is encoded within mesolimbic and nigrostriatal circuits.

◊ By identifying the mechanisms regulating metabotropic transmission we aim to identify the disruptions in these systems that under psychiatric disorders such as drug addiction and schizophrenia and neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease.

◊ Deep brain stimulation for the treatment of substance use disorders.

◊ Genetics, functional neuroimaging, experimental pharmacology, and “human laboratory” paradigms to evaluate novel medications for Alcohol Abuse and Alcohol Use Disorder.

◊ The role of the cerebellum as a sensorimotor integrator. Disorders of this circuitry are hypothesized to contribute to some aspects of disorders such as autism and schizophrenia as well as broad motor disturbances seen in cerebellar ataxias.

◊ Molecular neuroscience: how are properties of synapses (basic units of information gstorage) defined, formed, stabilized, maintained and modulated?

◊ The role of synaptic cell-adhesion molecules.

◊ Ion channels, ligand-gated receptors, scaffolding proteins and/or initiate intracellular signaling cascades.

◊ Genomic abnormalities in genes that encode and their association with neuropsychiatric disorders.

◊ Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), schizophrenia, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder) and addiction (cocaine, opioid, alcohol and nicotine). It is essential to understand how synaptic cell-adhesion molecules are utilized in disease-relevant circuitry and how their dysfunction can contribute to the synaptic etiologies that underlie mental health disorders. Recent technological advances now allow the

study of molecule function in distinct neural circuits with cell-type- and synapse-specific resolution to ultimately gain greater insight into how synaptic cell-adhesion molecules function.

◊ Mutations unique to Nrxn3 associated with both drug addiction and schizophrenia.

◊ Dominant function at synapses in neural circuits that regulate dopamine levels in the brain.

◊ Applying single-cell next generation RNA sequencing (RNAseq) approaches to gain a molecular handle on poorly understood cells in the hippocampal formation and in the striatum.

Clinical Spotlights

Non-epileptic Seizure Clinic

Non-epileptic Seizures (NES) is a common illness and has many names: non-epileptic seizures, non-electrical seizures, dissociative attacks, functional seizures, psychogenic non-epileptic events, somatoform disorder, conversion disorder or psychogenic seizures to name a few. These events are outwardly similar to epileptic seizures but have a different underlying cause.

CU Anschutz is one of the few NES diagnostic/treatment programs in the country. Our specialized team offers these services:

◊ A multidisciplinary team of neurologists, psychiatrists, and social workers

◊ Complete neurological assessment

◊ Complete behavioral health assessment

◊ Group therapies

◊ Family therapy

◊ Medication review and recommendations

◊ Recommendations for ongoing care after discharge

UCHealth Level 4 Epilepsy Center

UCHealth Epilepsy Monitoring Unit

Children’s Hospital Epilepsy Program

In the U.S., approximately 1 in 100 people have epilepsy, translating to about 3 million adults. Globally, around 50 million people are affected. Many with epilepsy can manage their condition effectively, with an estimated 70% potentially becoming seizure-free with proper diagnosis and treatment, according to the World Health Organization. At CU Anschutz, we treat this condition across the lifespan, using state of the art monitoring, surgical procedures, medications and more.

Click

CeDAR at CU Anschutz

Center for Dependency, Addiction, and Rehabilitation (CeDAR) – A Division of UCHealth

We are a non-profit treatment facility for substance use and co-occurring disorders.

Located on a beautiful, private campus integrated into the University of Colorado Hospital, CeDAR provides both inpatient and outpatient addiction treatment, along with the highest levels of medical and psychiatric care for adults 18 years of age and older.

Evidence-based programs at CeDAR offer a full continuum of care including:

◊ 5 to 10-Day Medically Supervised Withdrawal and Assessment Program

◊ 30-Day Intensive Residential Treatment

◊ 60 to 90-Day Residential Extended Care

◊ Intensive Outpatient Programs in Denver and Boulder

◊ Outpatient Addiction Medicine and Psychiatry

◊ Professionals Program

Multi-disciplinary treatment at CeDAR includes innovative programs such as:

◊ Medically Managed Detoxification and Stabilization

◊ Medication-Assisted Treatment

◊ Family Program

◊ Long-Term Recovery Coaching and Alumni Support Services

In the news...

AB Nexus Announces New Grant Awards With a Focus on Research Collaborations Related to AI and Climate Change. The intercampus program supports multidisciplinary research partnerships between CU Anschutz and CU Boulder.

First of its Kind Study Identifies Metabolic Defects in Dravet Syndrome. This research has the potential to pave the way for future new treatment options for children with Dravet syndrome

Microstructural Changes within the Basal Ganglia Differ between Parkinson Disease Subtypes.

Discovery of a New Synaptic Mechanism Through Which Memories are Maintained and Lost

Cationic peptides cause memory loss through endophilinmediated endocytosis

Neurexins and their ligands at inhibitory synapses

CU Researcher Studying Effects of GLP-1 Drugs on Alcohol Addiction. Joseph Schacht, PhD, is investigating whether the pill form of Ozempic can curb alcohol cravings.

Benzodiazepine use associated with brain injury, job loss and suicide

How Does Cannabis Use Affect Brain Function? Study examined how young adults, using cannabis to varying degrees, performed on working memory and other cognitive tasks

Neural Circuitry, Seizure and Addiction Science

» Adelman-Mullally T, Nielsen S, Ford CP, Astroth K, Chung SY. A chemogenetic approach for dopamine imaging with tunable sensitivity. J Prof Nurs. 2024 Jul-Aug;53:140-146. doi: 10.1016/j.profnurs.2024.05.009. Epub 2024 Jun 4.PMID: 38997193.

» Boxer, E. E.*, Kim, J.*, Dunn, B., & Aoto, J. (2023). Ventral Subiculum Inputs to Nucleus Accumbens Medial Shell Preferentially Innervate D2R Medium Spiny Neurons and Contain Calcium Permeable AMPARs. The Journal of neuroscience : the official journal of the Society for Neuroscience, 43(7), 1166–1177. https://doi.org/10.1523/JNEUROSCI.1907-22.2022

» Cases-Cunillera S, Quatraccioni A, Rossini L, Ruffolo G, Ono T, Baulac S, Auvin S, O’Brien TJ, Henshall DC, Akman Ö, Sankar R, Galanopoulou AS. WONOEP appraisal: The role of glial cells in focal malformations associated with early onset epilepsies. Epilepsia. 2024 Dec;65(12):3457-3468. doi: 10.1111/epi.18126. Epub 2024 Oct 14. Review. PubMed PMID: 39401070; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC11647439.

» Casillas-Espinosa PM, Wong JC, Grabon W, Gonzalez-Ramos A, Mantegazza M, Yilmaz NC, Patel M, Staley K, Sankar R, O’Brien TJ, Akman Ö, Balagura G, Numis AL, Noebels JL, Baulac S, Auvin S, Henshall DC, Galanopoulou AS. WONOEP appraisal: Targeted therapy development for early onset epilepsies. Epilepsia. 2025 Feb;66(2):328-340. doi: 10.1111/epi.18187. Epub 2024 Nov 19. Review. PubMed PMID: 39560633; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC11922076.

» Charuta N Joshi, Cemal Karakas, Krista Eschbach, Debopam Samanta, Kurtis Auguste, Virendra Desai, Rani Singh, Patricia McGoldrick, Steven Wolf, Taylor J Abel, Edward Novotny, Chima Oluigbo, Shilpa B Reddy, Allyson Alexander, Angela Price, Puck Reeders, Nancy Mcnamara, Erin Fedak Romanowski, Ian Mutchnick, Adam P Ostendorf, Ammar Shaikhouni, Andrew Knox, Gewalin Aungaroon, Joffre Olaya, Carrie R Muh. Pediatric neuromodulation for drug-resistant epilepsy: Survey of current practices, techniques, and outcomes across US epilepsy centers.

» Chaudhry N, Bergey GK, Kaplan PW, Johnson EL. Life Stressors During Pregnancy in Women With Epilepsy: Results From the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System. Neurology. 2023 Jun 13;100(24):e2424-e2431. PubMed PMID: 37072226

» Chaudhry N, Johnson E. Contraception and Prepregnancy Counseling. In: Bui, E, Voinescu, PE, editor. Women with Epilepsy, Practical Management Handbook. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press; 2025. p. 168-190

» Christopher M Bonfield, Allyson L Alexander, Craig B Birgfeld, Daniel E Couture, Lisa R David, Brooke French, Barbu Gociman, Jesse A Goldstein, Michael S Golinko, John R W Kestle, Amy Lee, Suresh N Magge, Ian F Pollack, S Alex Rottgers, Christopher M Runyan, Matthew D Smyth, Raj Vyas, C Corbett Wilkinson, Gary B Skolnick, Kamlesh B Patel, Jennifer M Strahle. Sports after single-suture synostosis surgery: a survey of Synostosis Research Group members.

» Figueroa AG, Fulton RE, Banerji R, Knupp KG, Patel MN. Mitochondrial respiration defects in lymphoblast cell lines from patients with Dravet syndrome. Epilepsia. 2025 Mar 22;. doi: 10.1111/epi.18382. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 40119852; NIHMSID:NIHMS2066204.

» Frank GKW, Stoddard JJ, Brown T, Gowin J, Kaye WH. Weight gained during treatment predicts 6-month body mass index in a large sample of patients with anorexia nervosa using ensemble machine learning. Int J Eat Disord. 2024 Aug;57(8):1653-1667. PubMed PMID: 38610100

» Gowin JL, Stoddard J, Doykos TK, Sammel MD, Bernert RA. Sleep Disturbance and Subsequent Suicidal Behaviors in Preadolescence. JAMA Netw Open. 2024 Sep 3;7(9):e2433734. PubMed PMID: 39283634

Neural Circuitry, Seizure and Addiction Science

» Highlights From the Annual Meeting of the American Epilepsy Society 2022 Ignacio Valencia, MD https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2385-4933 ignacio.valencia@towerhealth.org, Allyson L. Alexander, MD, PhD, […], and Barbara Jobst, MD, PhD https://orcid.org/0000-00019243-2238+109View all authors and affiliations OnlineFirst https://doi.org/10.1177/15357597231187227

» Hoffman P, Svalina MN, Flores C, Brzezinski C, Kushner JK, Staple B, Franco S, and Alexander AL. Developmental Characterization of Neuronal Migration Anomalies and Axon Proliferation in mTOR pathway-associated Malformations of Cortical Development bioRxiv [preprint]. Posted 3/12/23. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1101/2023.03.11.532231

» J Keenan Kushner, Paige B Hoffman, Christine R Brzezinski, Matthew N Svalina, Brent R O’Neill, Todd C Hankinson, Charles C Wilkinson, Michael H Handler, Serapio M Baca, Molly M Huntsman, Allyson L Alexander. Characterizing the diversity of layer / human neocortical neurons in pediatric epilepsy.

» Jasmine Chaij, Jiawei Liu, Brooke French, David Mirsky, Randy C Miles, Marius George Linguraru, Phuong D Nguyen, Allyson L Alexander, Carsten Görg, Antonio R Porras. Investigation of Cranial Bone Changes Indicative of Increased Intracranial Pressure in Diverse Phenotypes of Craniosynostosis.

» Jason Coryell, Rani Singh, Adam P Ostendorf, Mariah Eisner, Allyson Alexander, Krista Eschbach, Daniel W Shrey, Joffre Olaya, Michael A Ciliberto, Cemal Karakas, Samir Karia, Nancy McNamara, Erin Fedak Romanowski, Ammar Kheder, Javarayee Pradeep, Shilpa B Reddy, Michael J McCormack, Jeffrey Bolton, Steven Wolf, Patricia McGoldrick, Jason S Hauptman, Debopam Samanta, Priya Tatachar, Joseph Sullivan, Kurtis Auguste, Ernesto Gonzalez-Giraldo, Ahmad Marashly, Dewi F Depositario-Cabacar, Lily C Wong-Kisiel, Scott Perry. Epilepsy surgery in children with genetic etiologies: A prospective evaluation of current practices and outcomes.

» Jensen M, Cox AP, Chaudhry N, Ng M, Sule D, Duncan W, Ray P, Weinstock-Guttman B, Smith B, Ruttenberg A, Szigeti K, Diehl AD. The neurological disease ontology. J Biomed Semantics. 2013 Dec 6;4(1):42. PubMed PMID: 24314207

» Jiang B, Ozkara BB, Zhu G, Boothroyd D, Allen JW, Barboriak DP, Chang P, Chan C, Chaudhari R, Chen H, Chukus A, Ding V, Douglas D, Filippi CG, Flanders AE, Godwin R, Hashmi S, Hess C, Hsu K, Lui YW, Maldjian JA, Michel P, Nalawade SS, Patel V, Raghavan P, Sair HI, Tanabe J, Welker K, Whitlow CT, Zaharchuk G, Wintermark M. Assessing the Performance of Artificial Intelligence Models: Insights from the American Society of Functional Neuroradiology Artificial Intelligence Competition. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol. 2024 Sep 9;45(9):1276-1283. PubMed PMID: 38663992

» Jiawei Liu, Jasmine Chaij, Marius George Linguraru, Brooke French, Robert Keating, Allyson L Alexander, Antonio R Porras. Cranial bone thickness and density anomalies quantified from CT images can identify chronic increased intracranial pressure.

» Julia Pazniokas, William Harris, Mohammed Alshareef, Allyson L Alexander, Todd C Hankinson, Michael H Handler, C Corbett Wilkinson, Derek C Samples. Bedside transfontanelle drain placement reduces the need for operative intervention in infants with subdural fluid collections.

» Karoly HC, Kirk-Provencher KT, Schacht JP, Gowin JL. Alcohol and brain structure across the lifespan: A systematic review of large-scale neuroimaging studies. Addict Biol. 2024 Sep;29(9):e13439. PubMed PMID: 39317645

» Keeney JG, Astling D, Andries V, Vandepoele K, Anderson N, Davis JM, Lopert P, Vandenbussche J, Gevaert K, Staes A, Paukovich N, Vögeli B, Jones KL, van Roy F, Patel M, Sikela JM. Olduvai domain expression downregulates mitochondrial pathways: implications for human brain evolution and neoteny. bioRxiv. 2024 Oct 22;. doi: 10.1101/2024.10.21.619278. PubMed PMID: 39484454; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC11526873.

» Kirk-Provencher KT, Hakimi RH, Andereas K, Penner AE, Gowin JL. Neural response to threat and reward among young adults at risk for alcohol use disorder. Addict Biol. 2024 Feb;29(2):e13378. PubMed PMID: 38334006

» Kirk-Provencher KT, Sloan ME, Andereas K, Erickson CJ, Hakimi RH, Penner AE, Gowin JL. Neural responses to reward, threat, and emotion regulation and transition to hazardous alcohol use. Alcohol Alcohol. 2024 May 14;59(4). PubMed PMID: 38953742

» Kolesnik M, Chaudhry N, Libbon R, Spitz M. Perampanel and Postictal Agitation. Epileptic Disord. 2024 Oct;26(5):708-710. PubMed PMID: 38813922

» Kumar VA, Lee J, Liu HL, Allen JW, Filippi CG, Holodny AI, Hsu K, Jain R, McAndrews MP, Peck KK, Shah G, Shimony JS, Singh S, Zeineh M, Tanabe J, Vachha B, Vossough A, Welker K, Whitlow C, Wintermark M, Zaharchuk G, Sair HI. Recommended Resting-State fMRI Acquisition and Preprocessing Steps for Preoperative Mapping of Language and Motor and Visual Areas in Adult and Pediatric Patients with Brain Tumors and Epilepsy. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol. 2023 Dec 28. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 38164572

» Labouesse MA, Wilhelm M, Kagiampaki Z, Yee AG, Denis R, Harada M, Gresch A, Marinescu AM, Otomo K, Curreli S, Serratosa Capdevila L, Zhou X, Cola RB, Ravotto L, Glück C, Cherepanov S, Weber B, Zhou X, Katner J, Svensson KA, Fellin T, Trudeau LE, Ford CP, Sych Y, Patriarchi T. Salience signaling and stimulus scaling of ventral tegmental area glutamate neuron subtypes. Nat Commun. 2024 Jul 2;15(1):5551. doi: 10.1038/s41467-024-49442-3.PMID: 38956067 Free PMC article.

» Liang LP, Sri Hari A, Day BJ, Patel M. Pharmacological elevation of glutathione inhibits status epilepticus-induced neuroinflammation and oxidative injury. Redox Biol. 2024 Jul;73:103168. doi: 10.1016/j.redox.2024.103168. Epub 2024 Apr 24. PubMed PMID: 38714094;

Neural Circuitry, Seizure and Addiction Science

PubMed Central PMCID: PMC11087235.

» Lloyd, B. A., Han, Y., Roth, R., Zhang, B., & Aoto, J. (2023). Neurexin-3 subsynaptic densities are spatially distinct from Neurexin-1 and essential for excitatory synapse nanoscale organization in the hippocampus. Nature communications, 14(1), 4706. https://doi. org/10.1038/s41467-023-40419-2

» Ly A, Karnosky R, Prévost ED, Hotchkiss H, Pelletier J, Spencer RL, Ford CP, Root DH.bioRxiv [Preprint]. Reduced striatal M4-cholinergic signaling following dopamine loss contributes to parkinsonian and l-DOPA-induced dyskinetic behaviors. 2025 Jan 2:2025.01.01.631003. doi: 10.1101/2025.01.01.631003.PMID: 39803518 Free PMC article. Preprint.

» Mary Jeno, M Bridget Zimmerman, Sabrina Shandley, Lily Wong-Kisiel, Rani Kaur Singh, Nancy McNamara, Erin Fedak Romanowski, Zachary M Grinspan, Krista Eschbach, Allyson Alexander, Patricia McGoldrick, Steven Wolf, Srishti Nangia, Jeffrey Bolton, Joffre Olaya, Daniel W Shrey, Samir Karia, Cemal Karakas, Priyamvada Tatachar, Adam P Ostendorf, Satyanarayana Gedela, Pradeep Javarayee, Shilpa Reddy, Chad McNair Manuel, Ernesto Gonzalez-Giraldo, Joseph Sullivan, Jason Coryell, Dewi Frances Tonelete Depositario-Cabacar, Jason Scott Hauptman, Debopam Samanta, Dallas Armstrong, Michael Scott Perry, Ahmad Marashly, Michael Ciliberto. Pediatric Palliative Epilepsy Surgery: A Report From the Pediatric Epilepsy Research Consortium (PERC) Surgery Database.

» McGovern DJ, Phillips A, Ly A, Prévost ED, Ward L, Siletti K, Kim YS, Fenno LE, Ramakrishnan C, Deisseroth K, Ford CP, Root DH. miRNA-mediated control of gephyrin synthesis drives sustained inhibitory synaptic plasticity. bioRxiv [Preprint]. 2024 Jun 12:2024.06.12.598688. doi: 10.1101/2024.06.12.598688.PMID: 38915564 Free PMC article. Preprint.

» Ngoy A, Tang VM, Xiao K, Blumberger DM, George TP, Gowin JL, Le Foll B, Sloan ME. Neuromodulation for Cannabis Use: A Scoping Review. Brain Sci. 2024 Apr 2;14(4). PubMed PMID: 38672008

» Nielsen BE, Ford CP. miRNA-mediated control of gephyrin synthesis drives sustained inhibitory synaptic plasticity. Sci Adv. 2024 Nov 22;10(47):eadp6301. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adp6301. Epub 2024 Nov 20.PMID: 39565858 Free PMC article.

» Rieck J, Wrobel J, Porras AR, McRae K, Gowin JL. Neural signatures of emotion regulation. Sci Rep. 2024 Jan 20;14(1):1775. PubMed PMID: 38245590

» Ritvo AD, Foster DE, Huff C, Finlayson AJR, Silvernail B, Martin PR. Long-term consequences of benzodiazepine-induced neurological dysfunction: A survey. PLoS One. 2023;18(6):e0285584. PubMed PMID: 37384788

» Sangchooli A, Zare-Bidoky M, Fathi Jouzdani A, Schacht J, Bjork JM, Claus ED, Prisciandaro JJ, Wilson SJ, Wüstenberg T, Potvin S, Ahmadi P, Bach P, Baldacchino A, Beck A, Brady KT, Brewer JA, Childress AR, Courtney KE, Ebrahimi M, Filbey FM, Garavan H, Ghahremani DG, Goldstein RZ, Goudriaan AE, Grodin EN, Hanlon CA, Haugg A, Heilig M, Heinz A, Holczer A, Van Holst RJ, Joseph JE, Juliano AC, Kaufman MJ, Kiefer F, Khojasteh Zonoozi A, Kuplicki RT, Leyton M, London ED, Mackey S, McClernon FJ, Mellick WH, Morley K, Noori HR, Oghabian MA, Oliver JA, Owens M, Paulus MP, Perini I, Rafei P, Ray LA, Sinha R, Smolka MN, Soleimani G, Spanagel R, Steele VR, Tapert SF, Vollstädt-Klein S, Wetherill RR, Witkiewitz K, Yuan K, Zhang X, Verdejo-Garcia A, Potenza MN, Janes AC, Kober H, Zilverstand A, Ekhtiari H. Parameter Space and Potential for Biomarker Development in 25 Years of fMRI Drug Cue Reactivity: A Systematic Review. JAMA Psychiatry. 2024 Apr 1;81(4):414-425. PubMed PMID: 38324323 VGluT3 BNST neurons transmit GABA and restrict feeding without affecting rewarding or aversive processing.

» Sarah N Chiang, Jocelyn Reckford, Allyson L Alexander, Craig B Birgfeld, Christopher M Bonfield, Daniel E Couture, Lisa R David, Brooke French, Barbu Gociman, Jesse A Goldstein, Michael S Golinko, John R W Kestle, Amy Lee, Suresh N Magge, Ian F Pollack, S Alex Rottgers, Christopher M Runyan, Matthew D Smyth, C Corbett Wilkinson, Gary B Skolnick, Jennifer M Strahle, Kamlesh B Patel. What to do with an incidental finding of a fused sagittal suture: a modified Delphi study.

» Schacht JP. Stress, Cues, and Craving: Does the Insula Hold the Key to Understanding Stress-Induced Drinking in Alcohol Use Disorder?. Biol Psychiatry. 2024 Feb 1;95(3):200-201. PubMed PMID: 38143097

» Shah BR, Tanabe J, Jordan JE, Kern D, Harward SC, Feltrin FS, O’Suilliebhain P, Sharma VD, Maldjian JA, Boutet A, Mattay R, Sugrue LP, Narsinh K, Hetts S, Shah LM, Druzgal J, Lehman VT, Lee K, Khanpara S, Lad S, Kaufmann TJ. State of Practice on Transcranial MR-Guided Focused Ultrasound: A Report from the ASNR Standards and Guidelines Committee and ACR Commission on Neuroradiology Workgroup. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol. 2024 Nov 21. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 39572202

» Sigler B, Silvernail B, Ritvo AD, Huff C, Foster DE, Finlayson R, Bressi J, Martin PR. Evidence-Based Benzodiazepine Practice Guidelines Are Needed. J Clin Psychiatry. 2024

Neural Circuitry, Seizure and Addiction Science

May 27;85(2). PubMed PMID: 38814115

» Singh RK, Eschbach K, Samanta D, Perry MS, Liu G, Alexander AL, Wong-Kisiel L, Ostendorf A, Tatachar P, Reddy SB, McCormack MJ, Manuel CM, Gonzalez-Giraldo E, Numis AL, Wolf S, Karia S, Karakas C, Olaya J, Shrey D, Auguste KI, Depositario-Cabacar D; Responsive Neurostimulation in Drug-Resistant Pediatric Epilepsy: Findings From the Epilepsy Surgery Subgroup of the Pediatric Epilepsy Research Consortium. PERC Surgery Registry Workgroup.

» So C, Chaudhry N, Gandhi D, Cole JW, Motta M. Endovascular Thrombectomy in Acute-Onset Ischemic Stroke - beyond the Standard Time Windows: A Case Report and a Review of the Literature. Case Rep Neurol. 2018 Sep-Dec;10(3):279-285. PubMed PMID: 30323757

» Tanabe J, Lim MF, Dash S, Pattee J, Steach B, Pressman P, Bettcher BM, Honce JM, Potigailo VA, Colantoni W, Zander D, Thaker AA. Automated Volumetric Software in Dementia: Help or Hindrance to the Neuroradiologist?. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol. 2024 Nov 7;45(11):1737-1744. PubMed PMID: 39362700

» Tanabe J, Tregellas JR. Beyond the AJR: Should Patients With First-Episode Psychosis Undergo Brain MRI?. AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2024 Jun;222(6):e2330338. PubMed PMID: 37818960

» Terasaki D, Frank JW, Schacht J. Chronic Pain Associated Alcohol Use Disorder among Participants in a Small Clinical Trial. J Addict Med. 2024 Oct 24. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 39446063

» Vachha BA, Kumar VA, Pillai JJ, Shimony J, Tanabe J, Sair HI. Resting-State Functional MRI: Current State, Controversies, Limitations, and Future Directions-AJR Expert Panel Narrative Review. AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2024 Dec 11. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 39660823

» Welle TM, Rajgor D, Garcia JD, Kareemo D, Zych SM, Gookin SE, Martinez TP, Dell’Acqua ML, Ford CP, Kennedy MJ, Smith KR.bioRxiv [Preprint]. 2023 Dec 12:2023.12.12.570420. doi: 10.1101/2023.12.12.570420.Update in: EMBO Rep. 2024 Nov;25(11):5141-5168. doi: 10.1038/s44319-024-00253-z.PMID: 38168421 Free PMC article. Preprint.

» Welle TM, Rajgor D, Kareemo DJ, Garcia JD, Zych SM, Wolfe SE, Gookin SE, Martinez TP, Dell’Acqua ML, Ford CP, Kennedy MJ, Smith KR. Lessons learned: Using a Three-Step Model of Planned Change for nursing curricular revision. EMBO Rep. 2024 Nov;25(11):51415168. doi: 10.1038/s44319-024-00253-z. Epub 2024 Sep 18.PMID: 39294503 Free PMC article.

» Welton TA, George NM, Ozbay BN, Gentile Polese A, Osborne G, Futia G, Kushner JK, Klenschmidt-Demasters B, Alexander AL, Abosch A, Ojemann S, Restrepo D, Gibson EA. Two-Photon Microendoscope for Label-Free Imaging in Stereotactic Neurosurgery. Biomedical Optics Express, 2023 Jun 27;14(7):3705-3725. doi: 10.1364/BOE.492552. eCollection 2023 Jul 1.

» Wintermark M, Allen JW, Bhala R, Doshi AH, Mukherjee S, Nickerson J, Rykken JB, Shah V, Tanabe J, Kennedy T. Academic Neuroradiology: 2023 Update on Turnaround Time, Financial Recruitment, and Retention Strategies. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol. 2024 Nov 7;45(11):1621-1623. PubMed PMID: 38684321

» de Curtis M, Asukile M, Battaglia G, Sellin A, Cavalheiro E, Galovic M, Gelinas JN, Ikeda A, Patel M, Perucca P, Potschka H, Rocha L, Triki C, Wilmshurst JM, Gaillard W, Deleo F, Cendes F, Cross JH, Galanopoulou AS. Basic and preclinical epilepsy research Scientists’ perception of clinical epileptology. Epilepsia. 2025 Jan;66(1):60-74. doi: 10.1111/epi.18186. Epub 2024 Nov 28. PubMed PMID: 39607361; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC11742547.

Psychiatry and Behavioral Health

Psychiatry is a medical specialty that focuses on diagnosing and treating mental disorders. Psychiatrists are medical doctors (MDs or DOs) who have specialized in mental health, including substance use disorders. They can prescribe medication and provide other medical interventions to treat mental health conditions.

Behavioral health encompasses the well-being of a person’s mind, emotions, and how these factors affect their actions and overall health. It’s a broader term than mental health, often including substance use and how behaviors impact both physical and psychological health. Behavioral health professionals provide services for conditions like mental health disorders, substance use disorders, and related issues.

Conditions we treat and study

Substance abuse disorders

Eating disorders

Depression

Autism

Self-injury

Bipolar

Affective

Dissociation and

Clinical Depression

Paranoia

Social phobias

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Psychosis

Schizophrenia

Generalized Anxiety

Disorder

Panic disorders

Binge Eating Disorder

Disruptive Behavior and dissocial disorders

Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Program Leadership

Neill Epperson, MD

Chair, Department of Psychiatry

Scott Thompson, PhD

Professor, Psychiatry Director, Center for Novel Therapeutics

Chris Schneck, MD

Professor, Psychiatry –Adult Psychiatry

Medical Director, Helen & Arthur E. Johnson Depression Center Medical Director, CU Medicine Bipolar Clinic

Merlin Ariefdjohan, PhD

Assistant Professor, Psychiatry-Child-CHC Director, Psychiatry Research Innovations (PRI)

K. Ron-Li Liaw, MD

Professor, Psychiatry-Child-CHC Mental Health In-Chief

Vice Chair, Community Engagement Director, Division of Child and Adolescent Mental Health

Tracy Bale, PhD

Professor, Psychiatrypsychopharmacology

Professor & Endowed Chair, Anschutz Foundation in Women’s Integrated Mental and Physical Health Research

Kent Hutchison, PhD

Professor, PsychiatryOther CI Services

Joel Stoddard, MD

Associate Professor, Psychiatry-Child-CHC Leader, Emotion & Development Lab

Amanda Law, PhD

Professor, PsychiatryPsychopharmacology

Vice Chair – Research, Dept of Psychiatry

Thida Thant, MD

Assistant Professor, Psychiatry-Other CI Services

Consultation-Liaison Psychiatrist Director of the UCH Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry Service Director of the Psychiatric Consultation for the Medically Complex clinic

Assistant Chief of Service, CU Medicine Psychiatry Community Practices

Leadership,

continued

Jason Tregellas, PhD

Professor, Department of Psychiatry Director, Anschutz Medical Campus Brain Imaging Center

Sharon Hunter, PhD

Associate Professor, PsychiatryDevelopmental Research Director, Developmental Research Lab

Current Research Topics

In research productivity, as measured by extramural funding, the Department of Psychiatry ranks as one of the highest units on the University of Colorado campus when considering both grants and contracts. The Department of Psychiatry generally ranks within the top ten in peer-review funding from the National Institutes of Health and related organizations. It is also one of the strongest centers in the Veteran’s Administration for funding in mental health research. These awards have strengthened and enlarged our existing programs as we continue our commitment to a biopsychosocial model, medical and psychiatric education, an interdisciplinary research approach in priority areas, and to the provision of clinical services.

The breadth and depth of scientific accomplishment by our programs in the neurosciences, developmental neurobiology, addictions, infant development, child and adolescent psychiatry, behavioral immunology, schizophrenia, depression, transcultural, and public psychiatry is noteworthy.

◊ Stress impacts on sperm respiration and motility in mice and men.

◊ Infant visual-limbic white matter development.

◊ New-onset cognitive complaints after risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy

◊ Effects on markers of hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis activation and inflammation.

◊ Neuron loss in the brain and effects of GM-CSF treatment

◊ Sex Differences in Stress-Induced Cortisol Response Among Infants of Mothers Exposed to Childhood Adversity.

◊ The neuroplasticity framework of major depressive disorder.

◊ Natural vs. Surgical Postmenopause and Psychological Symptoms of Menopause and Executive Functioning Domains.

◊ Application of glutamate weighted CEST in brain imaging of nicotine dependent participants in vivo at 7T.

Psychiatry and Behavioral Health

◊ Estradiol effects on an emotional interference task in adolescents with current and remitted depression.

◊ Prenatal choline, cannabis, and infection, and their association with offspring development

◊ C-reactive protein and brain development.

◊ Maternal nutrients and effects of gestational COVID-19 infection on fetal brain

◊ development.

◊ Clinical decision support for bipolar depression using large language models.

◊ Neurocognitive risk phenotyping to predict mood symptoms in adolescence

◊ Intravenous ketamine in treatment-resistant major depressive disorder.

◊ Neuropsychiatric Symptoms of Subacute and Chronic Long COVID.

◊ Preventing and Managing Behavioral Escalation in the Acute Care Setting

◊ Youth Anxiety in the Digital Age

◊ Differentiating neural sensitivity and bias during face-emotion processing in youth

◊ Machine Learning for Mental Health: Applications, Challenges, and the Clinician's Role.

◊ Understanding how cannabinoids like CBD and THC influence the endocannabinoid system which in turn influences the immune system and the brain

◊ Understanding the role of stress dysregulation in neurodevelopmental and

◊ neuropsychiatric diseases

◊ The effects of stress and adversity across the lifespan, at the germ cell level, and the

◊ mechanisms involved in altering brain development

◊ Developmental Timing of Trauma in Women and Unique Extracellular Vesicle Proteome Signatures.

◊ Hippocampal output and acute stress responses in disynaptic inhibition of CRF+ PVN neurons.

◊ Antidepressant treatment with fluoxetine during pregnancy

◊ Paternal Lifetime Experiences Transmitted via Extracellular Vesicles and Their Small RNA Cargo

◊ Changes that occur in the brain in patients with major depression

◊ Key environmental risk factors for depressive disorders

◊ Excitatory Synapses and Major Depression

◊ Harnessing psilocybin: antidepressant-like behavioral and synaptic actions of psilocybin

◊ Molecular pharmacology and neurobiology of rapid-acting antidepressants

◊ Behavior regulation and the strength of hippocampus-nucleus accumbent excitatory synapses.

◊ Psychometric Evaluation of Cognitive and Positive Valence Tasks Chosen for the NIMH Research Domain Criteria

◊ Whole-brain intrinsic functional connectivity and symptoms and functioning in early psychosis

◊ Data-Driven Multiresolution fMRI Analyses

◊ Relationship between functional connectivity and weight-gain risk of antipsychotics in schizophrenia.

◊ First-Episode Psychosis and Brain MRI

◊ Functional magnetic resonance imaging of headache

◊ Hippocampal, basal ganglia and olfactory connectivity in cognitive impairments in Parkinson's disease

◊ Postsurgical Outcomes in Children with Refractory Epilepsy

◊ Brain and behavioral responses to high-calorie foods

◊ Rapid Early Brain Development and Critical Periods with Possible Intervention Window

Clinical Spotlights

Virtual Student & Resident Mental Health Clinic

CU Medicine Psychiatry –Outpatient Clinic

Child & Adolescent Outpatient Clinic

Children’s Hospital Pediatric Mental Health Institute

Colorado Women’s Behavioral Health & Wellness

The Colorado Women’s Behavioral Health and Wellness (CoWBHW) is one of the largest academic women’s behavioral health programs in the United States, and one of only a few offering a comprehensive lifespan approach. CoWBHW provides high quality clinical care, conducts ground-breaking research, trains the next generation of clinicians and scientists, and engages in advocacy efforts to enhance the mental health and well-being of women across the lifespan. We are committed to providing a safe space that fosters healing and connection.

Faculty & Staff Mental Health Clinic

The mission of the Faculty and Staff Mental Health Clinic is to provide CU Anschutz faculty, staff and postdocs with comprehensive and confidential mental health services that are readily and easily accessible. This dedicated clinic for faculty, staff and postdocs improves access to mental health care by providing a convenient entry point of care.

Immigrant and Refugee Mental Health Program at

CU Medicine Outpatient Psychiatry Clinic

Immigrants and refugees, seeking safety, leave their homes for unfamiliar destinations in search of better lives for themselves and their families. Despite considerable challenges, most immigrants and refugees in the United States lead healthy lives and contribute meaningfully to American society. Even so, adjustment to living in a new host country may be significantly affected by histories of grievous loss and violent traumatic exposures, which commonly precipitate profound emotional distress. Indeed, the prevalence of mental health conditions, especially posttraumatic stress disorder and depression, is high, particularly among refugees, a subgroup of immigrants routinely subjected to extreme traumatic experiences before, during, and after forced displacement. Promoting health in such a context means paying proper attention to these histories since emotional wellbeing is critical to overall health. Accordingly, our program aids in the social and emotional adjustment of immigrants and refugees in need. We provide mental health services with culturallyinformed approaches, educate healthcare providers about caring for immigrants and refugees, and increase professional and public awareness of immigrant and refugee community needs.

Outpatient OCD Program

Treatments for OCD and related disorders include:

◊ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Exposure and Response Prevention (CBT-ERP)

◊ Medication Management

◊ Group therapy

◊ Deep Brain Stimulation

(Treatment in the community or home determined on a case by case basis) Click here to read more.

PEACS

PEACS has expertise in identifying potential warning signs for psychosis, and in helping young people with changes in thinking, feelings, or behavior. We want to understand what is important to you and what you think will be helpful. We know that you and your family have strengths that can help you through difficult experiences, and that the concerns that led you to PEACS may not be the only concerns in your life.

PEACS is a little different from a typical outpatient center, in that you will need to be eligible for our clinic services. Our program is for young people (ages 12-30) who are experiencing new or worsening changes that may be warning signs for psychosis. There are multiple reasons why these changes may be happening, and an evaluation can help better understand what is going on and what to do next.

PEACS services help young people and their families:

◊ Consider all treatment options

◊ Understand changes in thoughts, feelings, and behavior

◊ Stay on track or get back on track with school, work, friendships, or self-care

◊ Learn strategies for reducing stress and increasing protective factors

The Stress, Trauma, Adversity, Research and Treatment (START) Center is a collaborative of interdisciplinary trauma experts committed to conducting research and providing clinical care that focuses on the whole person. This includes a commitment to trauma-informed and healing centered approaches to treatment. We collaborate with multiple programs across CU and in the community to ensure we are delivering the best evidence-informed trauma practices. We recognize the pervasiveness of trauma in our communities and its far-reaching impacts on physical and mental health, quality of life, relationships, and beyond.

Within the START Center, we currently have two clinics:

◊ START Clinic | Within the START Clinic you will find clinical professionals dedicated to providing treatment for people of all ages suffering from the effects of loss, trauma, chronic stress and adversity. Symptoms that many of our patients’ experience are mood dysregulation, sleep disturbance, unexplained physiological pain, relationship difficulties and challenges with occupational functioning. Many suffer from depression, anxiety, anger as well as posttraumatic stress disorder. You’ll find that we offer a range of treatments that have demonstrated effectiveness with evidence supported outcomes and are committed to working with you to develop plans uniquely suited to you. Further, we know that people exist within larger systems (i.e., families and communities) and whenever possible we encourage the involvement of family (birth or chosen) in the treatment process.

◊ TASK Clinic | The TASK Clinic = Interdisciplinary Trauma-Sensitive Assessment Services for Kids and is a multidisciplinary assessment clinic for children ages 3-12 in (or at risk of involvement with) Child Welfare who have complex diagnostic profiles with concerns for trauma effects and developmental/ cognitive delays.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Clinic

CU School of Medicine Community Practice offers Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), an FDA approved, safe and effective treatment for psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety associated with depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). TMS works by using MRI strength magnetic pulses to stimulate specific regions of the brain. It is an outpatient procedure that does not affect cognition so patients can leave the session without assistance and immediately resume their daily activities.

TMS is typically recommended when other treatments, such as medications and psychotherapy, have not been helpful. Approximately 50-60% of people with medication resistant depression will experience a clinically meaningful response with 20-30% reaching full remission, meaning complete resolution of symptoms. Since TMS does not involve the use of psychiatric medications, it is also considered in individuals who have difficulties tolerating antidepressants due to side effects.

Welcome to the Johnson Depression Center

The Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Depression Center is dedicated to helping patients and families by providing transformative treatment of depressive illnesses and related mood disorders. As part of the National Network of Depression Centers, the Johnson Depression Center’s innovative team-based and integrated care models are revolutionizing the mental and behavioral health landscape.

Our Mission

The Johnson Depression Center strives to improve the lives of people with depression and mood disorders through clinical excellence, innovative research, community programs, and education.

Our Goals

◊ To promote mental health as key to healthy living for all Coloradans.

◊ To develop, provide, and disseminate effective care for people with depression and bipolar disorder.

◊ To eliminate barriers to quality care and healthy communities.

Connections Program for High-Risk Infants and Families

Having a baby with medical complications can be an incredibly stressful and even traumatic experience for parents.

Symptoms of anxiety and depression are common. These mental health challenges, as well as prolonged NICU stays, can make it difficult for parents to bond with their infants and engage in the types of interactions that foster optimal development.

We promote optimal long-term developmental, behavioral, and medical outcomes of the baby and address the challenges that parents face when they have a baby with medical complications.

From conception through kindergarten, we serve women with high-risk pregnancies who have an unborn baby with medical complications, parents of newborn babies with medical complications (particularly those who have prolonged stays in the NICU), parents coping with the loss of a baby, as well as babies and young children born with medical complications.

In the news...

Feds deny MDMA. FDA rejects first application for drug despite 71% efficacy.

Breakthrough Research Sheds Light On The Hidden Effects Of Stress On Sperm. CU Anschutz researchers find stressinduced events like the pandemic jumpstart the male reproductive system once the event has passed.

How does psilocybin alter the brain? We talked to a scientist to find out.

Researchers say scientific discoveries are on the line as hundreds ‘stand up for science’ at State Capitol. The rally, one of several in Colorado, was part of nationwide Stand Up To Science rallies to advocate for continued government support for science.

CU Anschutz Researchers Offer New Understanding of How Antidepressants Work Evidence suggests serotonin-boosting actions relieve depression by restoring normal communication and connections in the brain

Long COVID Brings Focus to MentalPhysical Connection. Scientists and providers seek to understand increased psychiatric health issues post-infection.

In

the news...

Help for anxiety, depression and other behavioral health challenges available in primary care clinics

Psychologists, social workers and other behavioral health experts work down the hall from primary care providers so access to support is easier.

Supporting behavioral health across Colorado through co-responder programs.

24/7 online therapy for teens and caregivers: Accessible behavioral health care.

Co-responder teams of UCHealth clinicians, Fort Collins police providing critical 911 behavioral health care. Growing crisis-response model meets people where they are and frees up other emergency personnel to respond to crises.

July 25, 2024: Demand grows for children’s mental health care; Centenarian on life and longevity

Colorado mom whose 14-year-old died by suicide pushes for better emergency room care for kids in mental health crisis. Since her son Sam Aden’s death, Laura Love has become an advocate for change in a system that added to her child’s struggles rather than help him heal.

Psychiatry and Behavioral Health

Multiple Efforts Target Youth Suicide Crisis. Campus experts focus on ensuring suicidal youth can access the right help at the right time.

Psychiatry Professor Tracy Bale, PhD, Elected to National Academy of Medicine. Bale, the Anschutz Foundation Endowed Chair in Women’s Integrated Mental and Physical Health, is one of the 100 new members inducted in 2024.

Athletic Culture Can Feed Eating Disorders. Expert calls on coaches, peers and parents to talk openly about the issue and prioritize mental health over athletic performance.

What Parents Need to Know about Teens and Sextortion. As cases of financial blackmail of young people rise, a CU Anschutz psychiatrist offers insight into helping families stay safe online.

These Once-Ignored Brain Cells Are Now Thought to Impact Mental Disorders. CU researchers are looking further into how nerve glue may play important roles other than supporting neurons in the brain.

Doomscrolling? Kick the Habit with a Digital Detox That Works. Going cold turkey on screen time won’t work for everyone, but a mindful step away may improve relationships with social media and mental health.

‘Six Schizophrenic Brothers’ Family Teams With CU Researcher in Boosting Science. Family in HBO Discovery docuseries helped fuel discoveries in CU School of Medicine professor’s search for cure

Psychiatry and Behavioral Health

Publications

» Aisha Gillan, MD;* Melissa Peace, MD;* Davin Quinn, MD; Jon Levenson, MD; Thida Thant, MD. American Psychiatric Association Resource Document on the Neuropsychiatric Symptoms of Subacute and Chronic Long COVID. February 2024. https://www.psychiatry. org/Psychiatrists/Search-Directories-Databases/Resource-Documents/2024/Neuropsychiatric-Symptoms-of-Subacute-and-Chronic

» Ariefdjohan M, Nesi J, Mullin B, Pesko M, Fritsch S. Youth Anxiety in the Digital Age: Present Status and Future Considerations. In: Handbook of Children, Adolescents, and Screens; Digital Media, Development, and Well-Being from Birth Through Adolescence. Christakis, D.A., Hale, L. (eds). Chapter 18: Pg 129 -136. Springer. DOI : 10.1007/978-3-031-69362-5

» Ariefdjohan M, Reid D, Fritsch S. Youth digital dilemmas: exploring the intersection between social media and anxiety. Pediatric Clinics of North America, special issue on Social Media and Pediatric Mental Health; https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/ S0031395524001767

» Barone JC, Ho A, Osborne LM, Eisenlohr-Moul TA, Morrow AL, Payne JL, Epperson CN, Hantsoo L. Luteal phase sertraline treatment of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD): Effects on markers of hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis activation and inflammation. Psychoneuroendocrinology. 2024 Nov;169:107145. PubMed PMID: 39096755

» Bidwell LC, Martin-Willett R, Melendez SN, Rosa L, Giordano G, Hutchison KE, Bryan AD. LOTUS: Protocol for a double-blind placebo controlled randomized trial of hemp-derived cannabidiol for the treatment of cannabis use disorder. PLoS One. 2024;19(9):e0308262. PubMed PMID: 39348366

» Bidwell LC, Martin-Willett R, Skrzynski C, Lisano J, Ortiz Torres M, Giordano G, Hutchison KE, Bryan AD. Acute and Extended Anxiolytic Effects of Cannabidiol in Cannabis Flower: A Quasi-Experimental ad libitum Use Study. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res. 2024 Aug;9(4):1015-1027. PubMed PMID: 38252547

» Chen MY, Kramer EB, Gibson LP, Bidwell LC, Hutchison KE, Bryan AD. Investigating the Relationship Between Cannabis Expectancies and Anxiety, Depression, and Pain Responses After Acute Flower and Edible Cannabis Use. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res. 2024 Apr 12. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 38608236

» Crisp CM, Mooney E, Howlader M, Stoddard J, Penton-Voak I. Chronotype and emotion processing: a pilot study testing timing of online cognitive bias modification training. BMJ Ment Health. 2024 Jul 2;27(1):1-7. PubMed PMID: 38960412

» Cunningham SD, Lindberg S, Joinson C, Shoham D, Chu H, Newman D, Epperson N, Brubaker L, Low LK, Camenga DR, LaCoursiere DY, Meister M, Kenton K, Sutcliffe S, Markland AD, Gahagan S, Coyne-Beasley T, Berry A. Association Between Maternal Depression and Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in Their Primary School-Age Daughters: A Birth Cohort Study. J Wound Ostomy Continence Nurs. 2024 Jan-Feb 01;51(1):53-60. PubMed PMID: 38215298

» Demers CH, Hankin BL, Haase MH, Todd E, Hoffman MC, Epperson CN, Styner MA, Davis EP. Maternal adverse childhood experiences and infant visual-limbic white matter development. J Affect Disord. 2024 Dec 15;367:49-57. PubMed PMID: 39191307

» Epperson CN, Nagle-Yang S, Novick AM. Reproductive Psychiatry: Postpartum Depression is Only the Tip of the Iceberg. Focus (Am Psychiatr Publ). 2024 Jan;22(1):1-2. PubMed PMID: 38694150

» Epperson CN. Hormones as Psychotropic Interventions in Females. Focus (Am Psychiatr Publ). 2024 Jan;22(1):63-66. PubMed PMID: 38694158

» Epperson N, Davis R, Dempsey A, Haller H, Kupfer DJ, Love T, Martinez P, Matthews M, Moore SL, Muller K, Schneck CD, Scott JL, Zane RD, and Frank E. The trifecta of industry, academic and health system partnership to improve mental health care through smartphone-based remote patient monitoring: development and usability study. JMIR Publications.2024

» Ferren J, Stutzman DL, Fritsch SL, Liaw KR, Lauden S. Physical Health Comorbidities Among Youth Admitted to an Inpatient Psychiatric Hospital, Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Volume 62, Issue 10, S211

» Gibson LP, Giordano GR, Bidwell LC, Hutchison KE, Bryan AD. Acute Effects of Ad Libitum Use of Commercially Available Cannabis Products on the Subjective Experience of Aerobic Exercise: A Crossover Study. Sports Med. 2024 Apr;54(4):1051-1066. PubMed PMID: 38147185

» Gibson LP, Mueller RL, Winiger EA, Klawitter J, Sempio C, Williams S, Bryan AD, Bidwell LC, Hutchison KE. Cannabinoid Exposure and Subjective Effects of THC and CBD in Edible Cannabis Products. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res. 2024 Feb;9(1):320-334. PubMed PMID: 36378267

» Greenwood A, Yamamoto TM, Joshi M, Hutchison K, Bitler BG. Cannabidiol promotes apoptosis and downregulation of oncogenic fac-

tors. bioRxiv. 2024 Dec 5. PubMed PMID: 39677720

Psychiatry and Behavioral Health

» Haller HC, Moore SL, Green KK, Johnson RL, Sammel MD, Epperson CN, Novick AM. Harnessing technology to improve sleep in frontline healthcare workers: A pilot study of electronic noise-masking earbuds on subjective and objective sleep measures. Sci Prog. 2024 Apr-Jun;107(2):368504241242276. PubMed PMID: 38614463

» Haller SP, Archer C, Jeong A, Jaffe A, Jones EL, Harrewijn A, Naim R, Linke JO, Stoddard J, Brotman MA. Changes in Internalizing Symptoms During the COVID-19 Pandemic in a Transdiagnostic Sample of Youth: Exploring Mediators and Predictors. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev. 2024 Feb;55(1):206-218. PubMed PMID: 35794298

» Haller SP, Stoddard J, Cardenas SI, Dombek K, MacGillivray C, Botz-Zapp C, Bui HNT, Stavish CM, Kircanski K, Jones M, Brotman MA. Differentiating neural sensitivity and bias during face-emotion processing in youth: a computational approach. Soc Cogn Affect Neurosci. 2024 Jun 13;19(1). PubMed PMID: 38794949

» Jacobs PS, Jee J, Fang L, Devlin E, Iannelli C, Thakuri D, Loughead J, Epperson CN, Wilson N, Roalf D, Reddy R, Nanga RPR. Application of glutamate weighted CEST in brain imaging of nicotine dependent participants in vivo at 7T. PLoS One. 2024;19(2):e0297310. PubMed PMID: 38363747

» Jeng AC, Sibley IJ, Bale TL. A global perspective on AI innovation and effective use in the research lab. Neuroscience. 2024 Nov 12;560:106-108. PubMed PMID: 39307414

» Kaiser RH, Moser AD, Neilson C, Jones J, Peterson EC, Ruzic L, Rosenberg BM, Hough CM, Sandman C, Schneck CD, Miklowitz DJ. Neurocognitive risk phenotyping to predict mood symptoms in adolescence. J Psychopathol Clin Sci. 2024 Jan;133(1):90-102. PubMed PMID: 38059934

» Liaw KR, Anthony BJ, Hawks J, Kelsay K, Kennedy SM, Ladegard KM, Lueck M. Creating a Statewide Continuum of Care. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Volume 62, Issue 10, S99

» Liaw KR, Axelson D, Gleason MM, Wissow L. Transforming Children’s Mental Health Together: Early Learning, Strategies, and Outcomes from the Children’s Hospital Association Behavioral Health Leadership Collaborative at AACAP’s 71st Annual Meeting October 16, 2024.

» Lin D, Fu Z, Liu J, Perrone-Bizzozero N, Hutchison KE, Bustillo J, Du Y, Pearlson G, Calhoun VD. Association between the oral microbiome and brain resting state connectivity in schizophrenia. Schizophr Res. 2024 Aug;270:392-402. PubMed PMID: 38986386

» Lois BH, Mournet AM, Menz R, King M, Malizia R, Haines E, Coble-Sadaphal C, Liaw KR. A Closer Look: Examination of Suicide Risk Screening Results and Outcomes for Minoritized Youth in Subspecialty Pediatrics. Acad Pediatr. 2023 Jan-Feb;23(1):172-177. PubMed PMID: 35597439

» Long COVID & Fatiguing Illness Recovery Program (Module 4: Brain Fog), course developer, https://sites.google.com/view/lcfirp/

» Luehring MC, Romani PW, Ariefdjohan M. Preliminary evaluation of behavior technician burnout when working with boarded and traditional psychiatric inpatients diagnosed with developmental disabilities. J Child Adolesc Psychiatr Nurs. 2024 May;37(2):e12461. PubMed PMID: 38564318

» Melendez SN, Ortiz Torres M, Lisano JK, Giordano G, Skrzynski C, Hutchison KE, Bryan AD, Bidwell LC. Edible cannabis for chronic low back pain: associations with pain, mood, and intoxication. Front Pharmacol. 2024;15:1464005. PubMed PMID: 39380911

» Metcalf CA, Johnson RL, Duffy KA, Freeman EW, Sammel MD, Epperson CN. Depressed, stressed, and inflamed: C-reactive protein linked with depression symptoms in midlife women with both childhood and current life stress. Stress Health. 2024 Apr;40(2):e3313. PubMed PMID: 37679965

Psychiatry and Behavioral Health

Publications

» Metcalf CA, Page CE, Stocker BOS, Johnson RL, Duffy KA, Sammel MD, Loughead J, Epperson CN. Treating new-onset cognitive complaints after risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy: A randomized controlled crossover trial of lisdexamfetamine. Gynecol Oncol. 2024 Nov;190:62-69. PubMed PMID: 39146756

» Miller KN, Standeven L, Morrow AL, Payne JL, Epperson CN, Hantsoo L. GABAergic neuroactive steroid response to sertraline in premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Psychoneuroendocrinology. 2024 Feb;160:106684. PubMed PMID: 38091917

» Murray, Heather, Thant, Thida. “Preventing and Managing Behavioral Escalation in the Acute Care Setting: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Internal Medicine Curriculum Development”. Academy of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry Annual Meeting 2024. Brief oral presentation.

» Ngov, Li-Kheng, Burns, E, Thant, T, Mines, M, McIntosh, K, Bunch, E. “Suicide Prevention” Epic pathway. 2024

» Niciu MJ, Meisner RC, Carr BR, Farooqui AA, Feifel D, Kaplin A, Kendrick EJ, Kim PM, Schneck CD, Vande Voort JL, Parikh SV. National Network of Depression Centers position statement: Insurance coverage for intravenous ketamine in treatment-resistant major depressive disorder. J Affect Disord. 2024 Feb 1;346:221-222. PubMed PMID: 37940059

» Page CE, Epperson CN, Novick AM, Duffy KA, Thompson SM. Beyond the serotonin deficit hypothesis: communicating a neuroplasticity framework of major depressive disorder. Mol Psychiatry. 2024 Dec;29(12):3802-3813. PubMed PMID: 38816586

» Page CE, Soreth B, Metcalf CA, Johnson RL, Duffy KA, Sammel MD, Loughead J, Epperson CN. Natural vs. Surgical Postmenopause and Psychological Symptoms Confound the Effect of Menopause on Executive Functioning Domains of Cognitive Experience. Focus (Am Psychiatr Publ). 2024 Jan;22(1):97-108. PubMed PMID: 38694151

» Perlis RH, Goldberg JF, Ostacher MJ, Schneck CD. Clinical decision support for bipolar depression using large language models. Neuropsychopharmacology. 2024 Aug;49(9):1412-1416. PubMed PMID: 38480911

» Qiu L, Liang C, Kochunov P, Hutchison KE, Sui J, Jiang R, Zhi D, Vergara VM, Yang X, Zhang D, Fu Z, Bustillo JR, Qi S, Calhoun VD. Associations of alcohol and tobacco use with psychotic, depressive and developmental disorders revealed via multimodal neuroimaging. Transl Psychiatry. 2024 Aug 7;14(1):326. PubMed PMID: 39112461

» Riggs LM, Pereira EFR, Thompson SM, Gould TD. cAMP-dependent protein kinase signaling is required for (2R,6R)-hydroxynorketamine to potentiate hippocampal glutamatergic transmission. J Neurophysiol. 2024 Jan 1;131(1):64-74. PubMed PMID: 38050689

Psychiatry and Behavioral Health

» Roberts JM, Abimbola S, Bale TL, Barros A, Bhutta ZA, Browne JL, Celi AC, Dube P, Graves CR, Hollestelle MJ, Hopkins S, Khashan A, Koi-Larbi K, Lackritz E, Myatt L, Redman CWG, Tunçalp Ö, Vermund SH, Gravett MG. Global inequities in adverse pregnancy outcomes: what can we do?. AJOG Glob Rep. 2024 Aug;4(3):100385. PubMed PMID: 39253028

» Romani PW, Anjom A, Anderson T, Ariefdjohan M. Evaluating Adolescent Patient Outcomes and Staff Member Injuries at a General Psychiatric Inpatient Unit. Behav Sci. 2024 Aug 24;14(9). PubMed PMID: 39335953

» Sakai JT, Epperson CN, Panchal Z, Ali D, Singhal S, Mikulich-Gilbertson SK. Trends in Individual Career Development Awards from National Institutes of Health to Physicians in Departments of Psychiatry (2013-2022). Acad Psychiatry. 2024 Aug 22. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 39174721

» Sillau SH, Coughlan C, Ahmed MM, Nair K, Araya P, Galbraith MD, Bettcher BM, Espinosa JM, Chial HJ, Epperson N, Boyd TD, Potter H. Neuron loss in the brain starts in childhood, increases exponentially with age and is halted by GM-CSF treatment in Alzheimer's disease. medRxiv. 2024 Jul 15. PubMed PMID: 39072024

» Singhal S, Cooke DL, Villareal RI, Stoddard JJ, Lin CT, Dempsey AG. Machine Learning for Mental Health: Applications, Challenges, and the Clinician's Role. Curr Psychiatry Rep. 2024 Nov 11. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 39523249

» Skrzynski CJ, Bryan AD, Hutchison KE. Mindfulness mechanisms in alcohol use: Comparing top-down and bottom-up processes. Psychol Addict Behav. 2024 Feb;38(1):92-100. PubMed PMID: 37199963

» Stoddard J, Haller SP, Costa V, Brotman MA, Jones M. A Computational Model Reveals Learning Dynamics During Interpretation Bias Training With Clinical Applications. Biol Psychiatry Cogn Neurosci Neuroimaging. 2023 Oct;8(10):1033-1040. PubMed PMID: 37062362

» Stoddard J, Reynolds E, Paris R, Haller SP, Johnson SB, Zik J, Elliotte E, Maru M, Jaffe AL, Mallidi A, Smith AR, Hernandez RG, Volk HE, Brotman MA, Kaufman J. The Coronavirus Impact Scale: Construction, Validation, and Comparisons in Diverse Clinical Samples. JAACAP Open. 2023 Jun;1(1):48-59. PubMed PMID: 37359142

» Stoddard J. Editorial: The EDI-YC: A New Measure of Emotion Dysregulation in Young Children. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry. 2024 Jan;63(1):23-24. PubMed PMID: 37422105

» Stoddard J. Editorial: The Neural Systems of Fairness, Retaliation, and Aggression. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry. 2023 Jul;62(7):724-725. PubMed PMID: 36905981

» Sullivan AJ, Chung YS, Novotny S, Epperson CN, Kober H, Blumberg HP, Gross JJ, Ochsner KN, Pearlson G, Stevens MC. Estradiol effects on an emotional interference task in adolescents with current and remitted depression. Horm Behav. 2024 Jan;157:105450. PubMed PMID: 37923628

» Tanguturi YC, Codd E, Gaffey LJ, Hawks J, Fritsch SL, Liaw KR. Redesign of a General Child and Adolescent Inpatient Psychiatric Unit (IPU) and Implementation of an Evidence-Based, Trauma-Informed Model of Care, Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Volume 62, Issue 10, S269 - S270

» Thompson SM. Modulators of GABA(A) receptor-mediated inhibition in the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders: past, present, and future. Neuropsychopharmacology. 2024 Jan;49(1):83-95. PubMed PMID: 37709943

» Vargas L, Epperson CN, Richmond TS, Sharif S, Berkowitz L, Giano Z, Hargarten S, Ungar M, Weigend-Vargas E, Sakai J. Extortion experiences of recent adult immigrants from Latin America: self-reported prevalence, associated costs, and current mental health. Inj Epidemiol. 2024 Sep 5;11(1):43. PubMed PMID: 39238066

» Vargas LX, Ariefdjohan M, Page CE, Meisel ZF, Ulrich CM, Alegría M, Pimentel N, Epperson CN, Richmond TS. Field Notes from the Border: Lessons Learned in Conducting Mental Health Research Involving Newly Arrived Latinx Immigrants as Study Participants. J Immigr Minor Health. 2024 Nov 6. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 39503832

» Vargas LX, Sammel MD, Richmond TS, Ulrich CM, Giano ZD, Berkowitz L, Epperson CN. Traumatic experiences and place of occurrence: An analysis of sex differences among a sample of recently arrived immigrant adults from Latin America. PLoS One. 2024;19(6):e0302363. PubMed PMID: 38875238

» Wehrli LA, Ariefdjohan M, Ketzer J, Matkins K, De la Torre L, Bischoff A, Judd-Glossy L. "Take It One Dilation at a Time": Caregiver Perspectives of Postoperative Anal Dilations in Pediatric Patients with Colorectal Conditions. Behav Sci. 2024 Apr 30;14(5). PubMed PMID: 38785870

NNeurodevelopment, Learning and Childhood Conditions

eurodevelopment is the process of the nervous system's growth and development, including the formation of neural pathways and synaptic connections that are responsible for both basic and complex brain functions. This development begins in the third week of gestation and continues well into adulthood. It involves both genetic and environmental factors, and deviations from normal development can lead to neurodevelopmental disorders. These are Disorders that arise due to problems with the development of the nervous system, often leading to difficulties in areas like learning, communication, motor skills, and social interaction.

Some examples include autism spectrum disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, communication disorders, sensory disorders, motor disorders and various learning and intellectual disabilities. These conditions can affect a range of cognitive and motor functions, impacting an individual's ability to learn, socialize, and maintain self-control.

Factors Influencing Neurodevelopment include prenatal environment, maternal health, nutrition, and exposure to teratogens during pregnancy. A teratogen is any substance, agent, or process that can cause birth defects, or congenital malformations, in a developing fetus. It's any factor that interferes with normal embryonic or fetal development during pregnancy, potentially leading to structural deformities or other abnormalities. Early experiences, social interactions, environmental enrichment and early intervention programs can positively influence brain development, at least in some areas. Genetic factors can also predispose individuals to certain neurodevelopmental disorders.

Conditions we treat and study

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Learning Disabilities

Dyscalculia

Dysgraphia

Intellectual Disability

Cerebral Palsy

Speech Sound Disorder

Tic Disorders

Fragile X Syndrome

Down Syndrome

Developmental Dyspraxia

Developmental Oral Apraxia

Receptive Language Disorder

Expressive Language Disorder

Stuttering

Nonverbal Learning Disorder

Hydrocephalus

Muscular Dystrophy

Brain Tumors

Spinal Muscular Atrophy

Spina Bifida

Encephalitis

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Migraines

Moyamoya Disease

Tuberous Sclerosis

Spasticity

Craniopharyngioma

Pediatric cervical spine disease

Neurodevelopment Program Leadership

Nicole Tartaglia, MD

Professor, Neurosurgery and Pediatrics

Division Head, Pediatric Neurosurgery

Tim Bernard, MD

Professor, PediatricsNeurology

Kevin Ess, MD, PhD

Professor, PediatricsNeurology, Cell and Developmental Biology Division Director, Pediatric Neurology

Tim Benke, MD, PhD

Professor, PediatricsNeurology Director of ResearchNeurosciences Institute

The Ponzio Family Chair in Pediatric Neurology Research

Kelly Knupp, MD

Professor, PediatricsNeurology

Sharon Hunter, PhD

Associate Professor, PsychiatryDevelopmental Research Director, Developmental Research Lab

Joel Stoddard, MD

Associate Professor, Psychiatry-Child-CHC Leader, Emotion & Development Lab

Michael Handler, MD

Professor Neurosurgery - Pediatrics

The McMurry-Seebaum Chair in Pediatric Neurosurgery

Associate Surgeonin-Chief, Children's Hospital Colorado

Allyson Alexander, MD, PhD

Associate Professor, Neurosurgery-Peds

Todd Hankinson, MD

Professor, Pediatrics – Developmental Pediatrics

Founder & Director, eXtraordinarY Kids Clinic

Director, Denver Fragile X Clinic

DevelopmentalBehavioral Pediatrician

Cathy Bodine, PhD, CCC-SLP

Associate Professor & Section Head Departments of PM&R and Pediatrics

Executive Director, CU Assistive Technology Partners

Executive Director, Colemen Institute for Cognitive Disabilities, CU

Teri Schreiner, MD, MPH

Associate Professor, Pediatrics-Neurology

Kelly Wolfe, PhD

Associate Professor, Pediatrics-Neurology

Corbett Wilkinson, MD

Professor, NeurosurgeryPeds

Susan Howell, MBA, MS, CGC

Assistant Professor, Pediatrics-Clinical Genetics and Metabolism

Current Research Topics

◊ Pediatric cervical spine and occipitocervical disease.

◊ Neurodevelopmental Disorders X&Y

◊ Chromosome Disorders (Klinefelter syndrome/ XXY, XXYY, Triple X, Turner syndrome, XYY, other sex chromosome disorders)

◊ Fragile X syndrome, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, anxiety

◊ Testosterone Effects on Short-Term Physical, Hormonal, and Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Infants with 47,XXY/Klinefelter Syndrome

◊ Responsive Neurostimulation in Drug-Resistant Pediatric Epilepsy

◊ Developmental Characterization of Neuronal Migration Anomalies and Axon Proliferation in mTOR pathway-associated Malformations of Cortical Development bioRxiv

◊ Two-Photon Microendoscope for Label-Free Imaging in Stereotactic Neurosurgery

◊ Complications of Intrathecal Baclofen Therapy in Children and Young Adults

◊ An integrated multi-omics approach in the diagnosis of a deep intronic pathogenic variant in PDHX and precision treatment in a neonate critically ill with lactic acidosis

◊ Comprehensive scoping review of fenfluramine's role in managing generalized tonic-clonic seizures in developmental and epileptic encephalopathies.

◊ Human TSC2 mutant cells in early neurodevelopment accompanied by changes in the DNA Methylome.

◊ Non-canonical functions of a mutant TSC2 protein in mitotic division

◊ Axial Magnetic Resonance Angiography in Evaluating Revascularization after Indirect Bypass Surgery for Moyamoya disease

◊ Parent-reported outcome measures evaluating communication in individuals with rare neurodevelopmental disorders.

◊ Hippocampal activity and effects on cognitive and motor outcomes at 18 months

◊ Maternal choline during pregnancy and its effects on fetal development

◊ Effects of Choline and Folate on Excitatory and Inhibitory Neurotransmission During Human Gestation.

Research Institute

The Crnic Institute is the largest institute for Down syndrome research in the world, comprised of investigators from diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise.

We support a thriving ecosystem of over 50 independent laboratories studying Down syndrome at the University of Colorado. Our Principal Investigators come from over 25 different departments, representing a range of backgrounds and each bringing unique expertise and ideas to our research community.

Examples of studies at the Linda Crnic Institute:

The goal of the Human Trisome Project is to understand how a third copy of chromosome 21 causes a different disease spectrum in people with Down syndrome.

Down Syndrome Regression Disorder Clinical Trial:

We are conducting a novel clinical trial of potential treatments for Down Syndrome Regression Disorder (DSRD) in people with Down syndrome, funded by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute for Child Health and Human Development (NICHD).

Clinical Spotlights

Spina Bifida and Spinal Cord

Injuries Clinic at CHCO

Our Spina Bifida and Spinal Cord Injury Clinic treats a variety of spinal conditions, including: Spina bifida, Myelomeningocele, Other forms of spina bifida (including symptomatic spina bifida occulta, meningocele, spinal lipomas and lipomeningocele), Symptomatic tethered spinal cord, Sacral agenesis (a congenital malformation of the lower spine), Spinal cord injuries present at birth.

Children’s Hospital Of Colorado

Level 4 Pediatric Epilepsy Center

Colorado Fetal Care Center

Families from around the country, and even the world, seek our expertise in congenital (present at birth) conditions and fetal anomalies. We offer the most thorough, state-of-the-art testing and counseling available – and we do it in one day, in one location. This ensures that parents and babies receive the most advanced and personalized care before, during and after birth.

Pediatric Neuroscience Institute at Childrens Hospital Colorado

We provide comprehensive care for developmental and nervous system disorders ranging from complex neurosurgery to cognitive and behavioral counseling.

Clinical Spotlights

Developmental Pediatrics

Developmental Pediatrics at Children’s Colorado offers evaluations and follow up for a variety of developmental, behavioral and learning differences. This includes issues associated with developmental delays, intellectual, learning and other developmental disabilities, such as autism spectrum disorders.

Epilepsy Program

The multidisciplinary experts in our Epilepsy Program diagnose and treat all forms of epilepsy. We care for babies, kids and young adults, ranging from those who have just experienced their first seizure to those suffering from chronic and debilitating epilepsy.

Headache Program

Pediatric experts in our Headache Program design individualized care for each child’s condition, from behavioral therapy to the most advanced medicines available.

Neurodiagnostic testing

Children’s Colorado offers the most advanced neurodiagnostic testing for the diagnosis, treatment and management of complex neurological conditions.

Neurogenetic Pediatric Clinic

At the Neurogenetic Pediatric Clinic, we help children who have neurogenetic disorders such as brain malformations, drug-resistant epilepsy and progressive neurodegenerative disorders, as well as their families.

Neuroimmunology Program

The Neuroimmunology Program is a multidisciplinary clinic that specializes in the evaluation, diagnosis and care of children, teens and young adults with autoimmune disorders, multiple sclerosis and related neuroinflammatory disorders.

Neurology Clinic

The Department of Neurology at Children's Colorado evaluates and treats infants, children and teens with neurological disorders of the central and peripheral nervous systems.

Neuromuscular Clinic

The Neuromuscular Clinic is a multidisciplinary clinic that specializes in the evaluation, diagnosis and care of infants, children, teens and young adults with neuromuscular disorders.

Neuro-Oncology Program

Children’s Hospital Colorado offers the region’s only dedicated Neuro-Oncology Program for infants, children, teens and young adults with brain tumors. Our brain tumor team delivers optimal treatment and kid-friendly care, with the goal of preserving and improving your child’s quality of life.

Neuropsychology

Neuropsychology provides consultation and evaluation regarding the relationship of abilities, behaviors and mental skills to changes in brain functioning and integrity in infants, children and teens. We also monitor development and examine the long-term outcome of children with neurologic or systemic disease so that families can plan for the future.

Neurosurgery

The Pediatric Neurosurgery Program at Children's Colorado diagnoses and treats children with diseases of the brain and spinal cord, offering treatment for all types of disorders affecting the nervous system and skull.

Stereoelectroencephalography

Neurosurgeons at Children’s Hospital Colorado use stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG) to identify the source of a child’s seizures in his or her brain. A child may be recommended for SEEG when his or her seizures don’t respond to medicine or other treatments, as in the case of severe epileptic seizures.

Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy Surgery

Selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) is a surgery that reduces spasticity, or tightness, in the muscles of the lower extremities (legs). The goal of surgery is to improve the long-term quality of life for kids with spasticity, often caused by cerebral palsy.

Stereotactic Laser Ablation Program

The Stereotactic Laser Ablation (SLA) is a minimally invasive procedure that destroys lesions, tissue that has suffered damage through injury or disease, in the brain that cause seizures.

Global Down Syndrome Foundation

The Global Down Syndrome Foundation provides fundraising, education, awareness and government advocacy for the Anna and John J. Sie Center for Down Syndrome, the medical care center for the Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome.

The Sie Center opened its doors to patients with Down syndrome from all over the world and the US in November of 2010. It is located at the Children’s Hospital Colorado, (ranked among the top ten in the nation by News & World Report 2021) where there is a spectrum of experts to draw from.

Most importantly, the Sie Center is comprised of a multi-disciplinary “Dream Team” of experts with more than 80 years of combined experience in caring for children with Down syndrome and developmental disabilities. The Crnic Institute Director Joaquín Espinosa manages the Dream Team, including the Sie Center Director Dr. Nicole Baumer, Senior Physical Therapist Patricia C. Winders, and Program Director Dee Daniels.

The Cerebral Palsy Adult Transition (CPAT) study

The Cerebral Palsy Adult Transition (CPAT) study started in 2014 at Children's Hospital Colorado. The goal is to evaluate whether individuals with CP treated at the Center for Gait and Movement Analysis at Children's Hospital Colorado have significant health changes as they reach adulthood.

This study is supported by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research, Department of Health and Human Services, grant #H133G130200.

In the news...

A Study Will Explore How a Brain Tumor Can Trigger Severe Child Obesity. The CU Cancer Center and the Colorado School of Public Health are providing pilot funds for research that could lead to a better life for child patients.

Teen is youngest in Colorado to try neural implant to stop seizures: “Her brain has kind of calmed down”. Parkinson’s disease treatment is being repurposed to help with drug-resistant epilepsy.

'She's just such a happy kid': Colorado family opens up about 2-year-old daughter's journey with spina bifida.

‘A success’: Las Cruces baby first to undergo fetoscopic repair at Colorado hospital. Las Cruces resident Katarina Torrez was pregnant with her third child in 2023 and had no reason to think this pregnancy would be any different from the others.

New Leadership at Children's Hospital Colorado to Spearhead Largest Down Syndrome Center in the US.

Budget shortfall means Colorado’s young children with developmental delays will get fewer services.

In the news...

How Electroconvulsive Therapy was lifechanging for one teen with autism and catatonia

‘You have a purpose,’ Child cancer survivor is giving back to Children's Hospital Colorado

DNA Gains: Pediatricians Leverage Fast Genetic Testing for Neurodevelopmental Disorders

FamilieSCN2A Foundation Expands Multidisciplinary Care with Children's Hospital Colorado Neurogenetics Clinic

Children’s Hospital Colorado patient finds resilience after 10 years of dealing with polio-like illness

Neurodevelopment

ADHD and reading disability often occur together, study finds. It’s surprisingly common for children to have both conditions, CU Boulder researcher Erik Willcutt argues in a recently published paper

Antonio Porras employs artificial intelligence to ferret out craniofacial disease clues in kids

Click images to read more

Publications

» Alshareef M, Bsat S, Hankinson TC. Operative Adjuncts in Pediatric Brain Tumor Surgery with a Focus on Suprasellar Tumors. Adv Tech Stand Neurosurg. 2024;53:13-25. PubMed PMID: 39287800

» Benke TA, Demarest S, Angione K, Downs J, Leonard H, Saldaris J, Marsh ED, Olson H, Haviland I.2024 Apr 11 [updated 2025 May 1]. In: Adam MP, Feldman J, Mirzaa GM, Pagon RA, Wallace SE, Amemiya A, editors. CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder. GeneReviews® [Internet]. Seattle (WA): University of Washington, Seattle; 1993–2025.PMID: 38603524 Free Books & Documents. Review.

» Brock DC, Abbott M, Reed L, Kammeyer R, Gibbons M, Angione K, Bernard TJ, Gaskell A, Demarest S. Epilepsy panels in clinical practice: Yield, variants of uncertain significance, and treatment implications. Epilepsy Res. 2023 Jul;193:107167. PubMed PMID: 37230012

» Carl A, Bothwell S, Farah F, Swenson K, Hong D, Prakash S, Strang J, Tartaglia N, Raznahan A, Ross J, Davis S. Research Priorities of Individuals and Families with Sex Chromosome Aneuploidies. medRxiv. 2024 Aug 16. PubMed PMID: 39185520

» Carl A, Good M, Haag E, Hutaff-Lee C, Swain D, Tartaglia N, Sakamoto C, Davis S, Thompson T. Anxiety in Turner syndrome: Engaging community to address barriers and facilitators to diagnosis and care. Am J Med Genet A. 2024 Aug;194(8):e63564. PubMed PMID: 38528640

» Chiang SN, Reckford J, Alexander AL Birgfeld CB, Bonfield CM, Couture DE, David, LR, French B, Gociman B Goldstein JA, Golinko MS, Kestle JRW, Lee A, Magge SN, Pollack IF, Rottgers SA, Runyan CM, Smyth MD, Wilkinson CC, Skolnick GB, Strahle JM, Patel KB,for the Synostosis Research Group (SynRG). What to do with an Incidental Finding of a Fused Sagittal Suture: a modified Delphi study. 2024 May 10;34(2):182-189. doi: 10.3171/2024.2.PEDS23521. Print 2024 Aug 1.

» Cosgrove KT, Middleton C, Thompson TG, Be B, DeVries L. "It's Really Complicated": Engaging Key Stakeholders to Inform a Novel Parent-led Sexual Health Education Program for Autistic Youth. J Autism Dev Disord. 2024 Nov 2. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 39487928

Neurodevelopment

» CreveCoeur TS, Iyer RR, Goldstein HE, Delgardo MW, Hankinson TC, Erickson MA, Garg S, Skaggs DL, Andras L, Kennedy BC, Cahill PJ, Lenke LG, Angevine PD, Roye BD, Vitale MG, Mendiratta A, Anderson RCE. Timing of intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) recovery and clinical recovery after termination of pediatric spinal deformity surgery due to loss of IONM signals. Spine J. 2024 Sep;24(9):1740-1749. PubMed PMID: 38614157

» Dastagirzada YM, Alexiades NG, Kurland DB, Anderson SN, Brockmeyer DL, Bumpass DB, Chatterjee S, Groves ML, Hankinson TC, Harter D, Hedequist D, Jea A, Leonard JR, Martin JE, Oetgen ME, Pahys J, Rozzelle C, Strahle JM, Thompson D, Yaszay B, Anderson RCE. Developing consensus for the management of pediatric cervical spine disorders and stabilization: a modified Delphi study. J Neurosurg Pediatr. 2023 Jan 1;31(1):32-42. PubMed PMID: 36308472

» Davis S, Howell S, Janusz J, Lahlou N, Reynolds R, Thompson T, Swenson K, Wilson R, Ross J, Zeitler P, Tartaglia N. Testosterone Effects on Short-Term Physical, Hormonal, and Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Infants with 47,XXY/Klinefelter Syndrome: The TESTO Randomized Controlled Trial. medRxiv. 2024 Dec 10. PubMed PMID: 39711709

» Elbadry RG, Neuberger I, Ryan MV, Maloney JA, Laarakker A, Graber S, Bernard T, Cooper E, Ritz C, Wilkinson CC. Axial Magnetic Resonance Angiography in Evaluating Revascularization after Indirect Bypass Surgery for Moyamoya Axial Magnetic Resonance Angiography after Indirect Bypass. Pediatr Neurosurg. 2024;59(4):143-164. PubMed PMID: 38684141

» Fullerton HJ, Hills NK, Wintermark M, Dlamini N, Amlie-Lefond C, Dowling MM, Jordan LC, Bernard TJ, Friedman NR, Elkind MSV, Grose C. Evidence of varicella zoster virus (VZV) reactivation in children with arterial ischemic stroke: Results of the VIPS II Study. medRxiv. 2024 May 28. PubMed PMID: 38853955

» Howell S, Davis SM, Carstens B, Haag M, Ross JL, Tartaglia NR. Discordant Prenatal Cell-Free DNA Screening vs. Diagnostic Results of Sex Chromosome Aneuploidies: Implications for Newborn Screening and Genetic Counseling. Int J Neonatal Screen. 2024 Jul 10;10(3). PubMed PMID: 39051404

» Joseph, E. Y., Hopfer, C., Quintana, L. J., Ellingson, J. M., Wall, T. L., Rhee, S. H., & Ross, J. M. (2024, October). Associations between adolescent cannabis use and ADHD symptoms with depression and suicidality. Poster presented at the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Pediatrics annual meeting. Seattle, WA.

» Kalter JA, Yang RA, Toland A, Milla S, Lund TC, Hankinson T, Dahl NA. IDH-mutant astrocytoma arising from a demyelinating plaque in a child with X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy. J Neuropathol Exp Neurol. 2024 Mar 20;83(4):289-292. PubMed PMID: 38456320

» Kellogg, R. T., Lowe, S. R., Wessell, J., Hubbard, Z., Lajthia, O., Wolgamott, L., ... & Alshareef, M. Management of Chronic Subdural Hematomas with Bedside Placement of Twist Drill Subdural Evacuation Port System: A Single Center Retrospective Review.

» Kelson KS, Bernard TJ, Stence NV. Steno-occlusive Intracranial Large Vessel Arteriopathies in Childhood: A Pattern Oriented Approach to Neuroimaging Diagnosis. Neuroimaging Clin N Am. 2024 Nov;34(4):601-613. PubMed PMID: 39461767

» Klamut N, Bothwell S, Carl AE, Bamba V, Law JR, Brickman WJ, Klein KO, Kanakatti Shankar R, Pinnaro CT, Fechner PY, Prakash SK, Gutmark-Little I, Howell S, Tartaglia N, Good M, Ranallo KC, Davis SM. Prevalence, diagnostic features, and medical outcomes of females with Turner syndrome with a trisomy X cell line (45,X/47,XXX): Results from the InsighTS Registry. Am J Med Genet A. 2024 Dec;194(12):e63819. PubMed PMID: 39016627

» Malhotra AK, Kulkarni AV, Verhey LH, Reeder RW, Riva-Cambrin J, Jensen H, Pollack IF, McDowell M, Rocque BG, Tamber MS, McDonald PJ, Krieger MD, Pindrik JA, Isaacs AM, Hauptman JS, Browd SR, Whitehead WE, Jackson EM, Wellons JC 3rd, Hankinson TC, Chu J, Limbrick DD Jr, Strahle JM, Kestle JRW. Does machine learning improve prediction accuracy of the Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy Success Score? A contemporary Hydrocephalus Clinical Research Network cohort study. Childs Nerv Syst. 2024 Dec 10;41(1):42. PubMed PMID: 39658658

» McCabe, C. J., Wall, T. L., Stallings, M., Hopfer, C., Rhee, S., Gustavson, D., Corley, R., Hinckley, J., Ross, J. M., & Ellingson, J. (2024, June). Evaluating directional associations between antisocial behavior and alcohol use disorder from adolescence through middle adulthood. Poster presented at the Research Society on Alcoholism annual meeting.

Neurodevelopment

» Moran MJ, Thompson T, Jimenez V, Gutierrez-Colina AM, Clark N, Sanchez N, Schwartz L, Haemer MA, Shomaker LB. Understanding Community-Specific Health Behaviors to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes and Depression in Rural Adolescents: A Qualitative Study. Int J Behav Med. 2024 Oct 30. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 39477857

» Panchal, Z., Sakai, J., Goldstein-Piekarski, A. N., Ellingson, J. M., Hopfer, C. J., Corley, R. P., Vrieze, S., McGue, M. K., Hewitt, J. K., Iacono, W., & Ross, J. M. (2024, June). Mental health and substance use outcomes associated with use of cannabis as a sleep aid: A co-twin control study. Poster accepted for presentation at the SLEEP annual meeting.

» Pazniokas J, Harris W, Alshareef M, Alexander AL, Hankinson TC, Handler MH, Wilkinson CC, Samples DC. Bedside transfontanelle drain placement reduces the need for operative intervention in infants with subdural fluid collections. Childs Nerv Syst. 2024 Dec 16;41(1):55. PubMed PMID: 39680149

» Quintana, L. J., Hopfer, C., Joseph, E. Y., Ellingson, J. M., Wall, T. L., Rhee, S. H., & Ross, J. M. (2024, October). ADHD and cannabis use: Independent and combined effects on cognitive function from adolescence to young adulthood. Poster presented at the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Pediatrics annual meeting. Seattle, WA.

» Ravindra VM, Riva-Cambrin J, Jensen H, Whitehead WE, Kulkarni AV, Limbrick DD, Wellons JC, Naftel RP, Rozzelle CJ, Rocque BG, Pollack IF, McDowell MM, Tamber MS, Hauptman JS, Browd SR, Pindrik J, Isaacs AM, McDonald PJ, Hankinson TC, Jackson EM, Chu J, Krieger MD, Simon TD, Strahle JM, Holubkov R, Reeder R, Kestle JRW. Comparing ventriculoatrial and ventriculopleural shunts in pediatric hydrocephalus: a Hydrocephalus Clinical Research Network study. J Neurosurg Pediatr. 2024 Oct 1;34(4):305-314. PubMed PMID: 38968629

» Responsive Neurostimulation in Drug-Resistant Pediatric Epilepsy: Findings From the Epilepsy Surgery Subgroup of the Pediatric Epilepsy Research Consortium. Singh RK, Eschbach K, Samanta D, Perry MS, Liu G, Alexander AL, Wong-Kisiel L, Ostendorf A, Tatachar P, Reddy SB, McCormack MJ, Manuel CM, Gonzalez-Giraldo E, Numis AL, Wolf S, Karia S, Karakas C, Olaya J, Shrey D, Auguste KI, Depositario-Cabacar D; PERC Surgery Registry Workgroup.

» Richardson, M. M., Larrew, T., Lin, S., Alshareef, M., Vasas, J. T., Infinger, L., & Eskandari, R. (2024). Utility of intracranial pressure monitoring as a diagnostic tool in pediatric ventriculomegaly. Clinical Neurology and Neurosurgery, 240, 108277.

» Ryan M, Alvarez R, Elias E, Ihekweazu C, Wilkinson C. Management of pediatric patient with multiple cranial, intracranial, and spinal manifestations of Penttinen Syndrome: a case report. Pediatr Neurosurg. 2024 59(4)165-172. doi: 10.1159/000539098. PMID: 38684141.

» Ryan MV, Freeman LM, Blasco S, Sawyer K, Graber S, Tong S, Oleszek J, Wilkinson CC. Complications of Intrathecal Baclofen Therapy in Children and Young Adults. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2024. 34(6):659-670 doi: 10.3171/2024.6.PEDS23360. PMID: 39303297

» San Roman AK, Skaletsky H, Godfrey AK, Bokil NV, Teitz L, Singh I, Blanton LV, Bellott DW, Pyntikova T, Lange J, Koutseva N, Hughes JF, Brown L, Phou S, Buscetta A, Kruszka P, Banks N, Dutra A, Pak E, Lasutschinkow PC, Keen C, Davis SM, Lin AE, Tartaglia NR, Samango-Sprouse C, Muenke M, Page DC. The human Y and inactive X chromosomes similarly modulate autosomal gene expression. Cell Genom. 2024 Jan 10;4(1):100462. PubMed PMID: 38190107

» Sanchez N, Chen M, Ho S, Spinner H, Vagadori J, Neiser A, Padilla K, Bristol M, Winfield E, Thorstad I, Gulley LD, Lucas-Thompson RG, Pyle L, Thompson T, Estrada DE, Basch M, Tanofsky-Kraff M, Kelsey MM, Mackey ER, Shomaker LB. Mindfulness-based intervention for depression and insulin resistance in adolescents: Protocol for BREATHE, a multisite, pilot and feasibility randomized controlled trial. Contemp Clin Trials. 2024 Jun;141:107522. PubMed PMID: 38580104

Neurodevelopment

» Sannar EM, Winter JR, Franke RK, Werner E, Rochowiak R, Romani PW, Miller OS, Bainbridge JL, Enabulele O, Thompson T, Natvig C, Mikulich-Gilbertson SK, Tartaglia NR. Cannabidiol for treatment of Irritability and Aggressive Behavior in Children and Adolescents with ASD: Background and Methods of the CAnnabidiol Study in Children with Autism Spectrum DisordEr (CASCADE) Study. medRxiv. 2024 Aug 13. PubMed PMID: 39211864

» Smith BL, Hankinson T, Maher S. Portable Instrumentation for Ambient Ionization and Miniature Mass Spectrometers. Annu Rev Anal Chem (Palo Alto Calif). 2024 Jul;17(1):69-102. PubMed PMID: 38640067

» Tartaglia N, Davis S, Howell S, Bothwell S, Nocon K, Kowal K, Ikomi C, Keene A, Reynolds V, Berglund A, Ross J. Medical Findings in Infants Prenatally Identified with Sex Chromosome Trisomy in Year One of Life. medRxiv. 2024 Jul 10. PubMed PMID: 39040179

» Thompson T, Bothwell S, Janusz J, Wilson R, Howell S, Davis S, Swenson K, Martin S, Kowal K, Ikomi C, Despradel M, Ross J, Tartaglia N. Quantifying the Spectrum of Early Motor and Language Milestones in Sex Chromosome Trisomy. medRxiv. 2024 Aug 19. PubMed PMID: 39228733

» Thompson T, Tisher J, Davis S, Miller C, Kirk J, Tartaglia N, Howell S. The emotional journey of adapting to prenatally identified trisomy X. J Genet Couns. 2024 Aug;33(4):793-804. PubMed PMID: 37691399

» Urbanus E, Swaab H, Tartaglia N, van Rijn S. Social Communication in Young Children With Sex Chromosome Trisomy (XXY, XXX, XYY): A Study With Eye Tracking and Heart Rate Measures. Arch Clin Neuropsychol. 2024 May 21;39(4):482-497. PubMed PMID: 37987192

» Verhey LH, Kulkarni AV, Reeder RW, Riva-Cambrin J, Jensen H, Pollack IF, Rocque BG, Tamber MS, McDonald PJ, Krieger MD, Pindrik JA, Hauptman JS, Browd SR, Whitehead WE, Jackson EM, Wellons JC, Hankinson TC, Chu J, Limbrick DD, Strahle JM, Kestle JRW. A re-evaluation of the Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy Success Score: a Hydrocephalus Clinical Research Network study. J Neurosurg Pediatr. 2024 May 1;33(5):417-427. PubMed PMID: 38335514

» Wittenberg B, Ryan M, Hoffman J, Bernard T, Seinfeld J, Wilkinson C. Moyamoya. Rapidly Progressive Contralateral Internal Carotid Artery Stenosis after COVID-19 Infection in Down Syndrome Patient with Unilateral Moyamoya Arteriopathy. Cureus. 2024 16(3): e56575. doi:10.7759/cureus.56575.

» Yahanda AT, Koueik J, Ackerman LL, Adelson PD, Albert GW, Aldana PR, Alden TD, Anderson RCE, Bauer DF, Bethel-Anderson T, Bierbrauer K, Brockmeyer DL, Chern JJ, Couture DE, Daniels DJ, Dlouhy BJ, Durham SR, Ellenbogen RG, Eskandari R, Fuchs HE, Grant GA, Graupman PC, Greene S, Greenfield JP, Gross NL, Guillaume DJ, Hankinson TC, Heuer GG, Iantosca M, Iskandar BJ, Jackson EM, Jallo GI, Johnston JM, Kaufman BA, Keating RF, Khan NR, Krieger MD, Leonard JR, Maher CO, Mangano FT, Martin J, McComb JG, McEvoy SD, Meehan T, Menezes AH, Muhlbauer MS, O'Neill BR, Olavarria G, Ragheb J, Selden NR, Shah MN, Shannon CN, Shimony JS, Smyth MD, Stone SSD, Strahle JM, Tamber MS, Torner JC, Tuite GF, Tyler-Kabara EC, Wait SD, Wellons JC, Whitehead WE, Park TS, Limbrick DD, Ahmed R. The role of occipital condyle and atlas anomalies on occipital cervical fusion outcomes in Chiari malformation type I with syringomyelia: a study from the Park-Reeves Syringomyelia Research Consortium. J Neurosurg Pediatr. 2024 Jul 1;34(1):66-74. PubMed PMID: 38579359

Our Events & Accomplishments

TED for your HEAD

TED for your Head" talks began in September of 2021, across the street from the Anschutz Campus. It became the “launch platform” for the “NEUROSCIENCES INNOVATION INITIATIVE."

The goal has been to combine ALL the different clinical, educational, and research components of the neurosciences under one roof, just once a month or every other month. In an informal, relaxed atmosphere, we have nourished collaboration, had complex discussions, challenged each other … and made new friends! The Neurosurgery Department sponsored this endeavor for the first two years, until the NII could do some fundraising.

Official TED talks, which began in the Silicon Valley during the height of the tech industry’s rise, was primarily a fundraising platform. But, people liked it so much, it went viral and is now a huge organization with affiliates across the globe. TED stands for Technology, Entertainment and Design. Talks are meant to be about ten minutes long, highly engaging, entertaining and easy to understand. We want to thank all of the amazing speakers throughout this series, who kept it alive and helped us grow this initiative. And we are very thankful to all the people who came regularly, including faculty, students, staff and community members!

September, 2021

CUTTING THROUGH THE HYPE OF TECH FOR YOUR BRAIN!

Matt Vogle, MPH, Executive Director National Mental Health

Innovation Center at CU Anschutz

OPTOGENETICS, NEURAL INTERFACE & ROBOTIC LIMBS, OH MY!!

Richard Weir, Phd and Emily Gibson, PhD

Bioengineering, Department of Physiology and Biophysics

October, 2021

TO UNDERSTAND THE BRAIN, START WITH THE “LITTLE BRAIN”

Abigail Person, PhD Department of Physiology & Biophysics

November, 2021

BOOST YOUR BRAIN! Can technology really help us get smarter?

Cristin Welle, PhD Department of Neurosurgery

December, 2021

NEUROSCIENCES HOLIDAY PARTY MUSIC and YOUR BRAIN

Sarah Thompson, MM, MT-BCCBIS

Music Therapist & PhD student, CU Clinical Sciences

February, 2022

HOW TO GET A NOBEL PRIZE!

Lotta Granholm-Bentley, PhD, DDS Department of Neurosurgery

CONVERSATIONAL SPEECH & EARLY DEMENTIA DETECTION

Diagnostics, Ethics, Quality Control and more….

Peter Pressman, MD Department of Neurology

GRATITUDE: The Neuroscience & Clinical Benefits for our Brains

Edward MacPhee, MD & Amy Scholler Dreier, PhD Department of Psychiatry

IS LOSS OF SMELL THROUGH VIRAL INFECTION LINKED TO ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE?

Diego Restrepo, PhD Department of Cell and Developmental Biology

Maria Nagel, MD Department of Neurology & Opthamology

April, 2022

MRI GUIDED FOCUSED ULTRASOUND

Steve Ojemann, MD Department of Neurosurgery

May, 2022

NEURO DEGENERATION AND THE AGING BRAIN “SPEED DATING” RESEARCH SHARE!

September, 2022

SIX DEGREES BETWEEN TWO KEVINS! Data & Model

Driven Approaches to TBI & Thromboinflammation

Mitchell Cohen, MD Department of Medicine: Trauma & Acute Care Surgery

October, 2022

SPECIAL COLLABORATION

NEUROSCIENCES and ARTS & BIOETHICS

Neuroforest Exhibit by Katie Caron

SCHIZOPHRENIA – AN INTRIGUING HYPOTHESIS

Judith Gault, PhD Departments of Neurosurgery & Psychiatry

June, 2022

CELEBRATION OF GRADUATES, RESIDENTS & FELLOWS “BEDSIDE TO CURBSIDE” Technology for Functional Independence

Cathy Bodine, PhD CU School of Medicine and CU School of Engineering

CONCUSSION: IS SPORTS GETTING A BAD RAP?

Kathryn Beauchamp, MD Department of Neurosurgery, NFL Team Physician

WHAT DO CAREGIVERS THINK ABOUT US, IN THE HEALTH SERVICES?

Lori Sandler

Caregiver for patient with Lennox Gestault Syndrome

Candace Maley

Caregiver for Parkinson’s patient

December, 2022

HOLIDAY CELEBRATION!

MULTIPHOTON IMAGING OF DEEP BRAIN REGIONS

Tarah Welton Bioengineering PhD Student

TOWARDS A COMPUTATIONALLY GUIDED NEUROLOGIC CLINICAL CARE

Andy Tekriwal, PhD, MS3 Department of Neurosurgery

March, 2023 May, 2023

How viruses changed how we think about dementia.

Special Guest: Robyn Klein, PhD University of Washington

September, 2023

October, 2023

NEURAL INJURY, REPAIR AND REHAB

POST-NFL BRAIN NEED YOU NEUROS!

David Stall, Former NFL Player

“Wishing you well!”

CU Neurosurgery’s first hard steps into the soft science of well being

Daniel Craig, MD Department of Neurosurgery

Neuroscience Focus Area: Neuro-circuitry, Substance USE Disorders & Psychiatry

Joseph Sakai, MD Associate & Joseph Schacht, PhD Department of Psychiatry Division of Addiction Science, Prevention & Treatment

Alexis Ritvo, MD CeDAR Program Director Department of Psychiatry

BRAINS BEHIND BARS: REPORTS FROM THE STUDY OF SOCIETIES MOST VULNERABLE BRAINS

Kimberly Gorgens, PhD University of Denver Graduate School of Professional Psychology

December 2023

February, 2024

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, BIG DATA & THE NEUROSCIENCES INCEPTION TO CONNECTION: DECODING THE DREAMS OF MACHINE LEARNING AND AI IN NEUROSCIENCES

Arjun Krushnan, PhD Biomedical Informatics

April, 2024

AGING ACROSS THE LIFESPAN

Rebecca Chopp, PhD Former Chancellor, University of Denver

Hunt Potter, PhD Department of Neurology Director, University of Colorado

September, 2024

WHAT EVERY REHAB PROVIDER WISHES YOU KNEW! RESTORING MOVEMENT AFTER SPINAL CORD INJURY

Andrew C. Smith, PT, DPT, PhD

Spinal Cord Injury Imaging Research Lab Department of PM&R

THESE ARE A FEW OF MY FAVORITE THINGS HOLIDAY CELEBRATION

Brian Kavanaugh, MD Chair, Department of Radiation Oncology

Neill Epperson, MD Chair, Department of Psychiatry

Kevin Lillehei, MD Chair, Department of Neurosurgery

GRAPH NEURAL NETWORKS: What’s that all about?

Shane Quint President & Chief Technology Officer CereScan

June, 2024

BLAST INJURY AND TBI –How is it different?

General Kathleen Flarity Executive Director, Marcus Center for Brain Health

Vik Bebarta, MD Director, COMBAT Center

LESSONS LEARNED IN THE FIELD

Jordon Connor, PT Craig Hospital Physical Therapist PhD Candidate, Neuroscience Program at CU

NII Events & Accomplishments

December, 2022

THE BUILDING BLOCKS OF A HEALTHY BRAIN BEGIN BEFORE BIRTH! Can Sperm Change the Brain?

Tracy Bale, PhD Department of PsychiatryPsychopharmacology

January, 2025

WHAT’S GOING ON? What’s all this buzz about neuroscience?

Join two “TED style” speakers who presented at the Jan 6th “Chairs” retreat with Dean Sampson, and learn why these two program areas may be the “hot” items in neuroscience on this campus!

Cristin Welle, PhD Department of Neurosurgery

Enrique Alvarez, MD, PhD Department of Neurology

The Developing Brain: Addressing Mental Health Begins In-Utero

Amanda Law, PhD Department of PsychiatryPsychopharmacology

May, 2025

STIFF PERSON SYNDROME

New studies & revelations in Neuroimmunology, virology & inflammation

Amanda Piquet, MD Department of Neurology

Samuel Guzman, MD Department of Pathology

“BRAIN 101”

Six week, Virtual Community Course

Sponsored by the Neuroscience Innovation Initiative

Hosted by Kevin Lillehei, MD

Chair, Department of Neurosurgery

In the Spring of 2024, the NII launched a six week virtual course all about the brain, designed for the general community. There were over 250 registrants. Expert faculty from the departments of Neurosurgery, Neurology and Psychiatry presented in their core areas. The entire course was well received and ended with a graduation “reception” where certificates were given to those who made it through all six sessions. Every session was recorded, and recordings were made available to all participants. Each week, the Q&A at the end of each session was written and sent to each participant. Many thanks to all those who helped make this community endeavor such a great success!

Week 1

Week 2

Introduction to Brain Anatomy

Steven Ojemann, MD Professor of Neurosurgery Director, Stereotactic & Functional Neurosurgery

Introduction to Stroke & Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Sharon Poisson, MD Professor, Neurology Co-Director, UC Hospital Comprehensive Stroke Center

Christopher Roark, MD Associate Professor, Neurosurgery Neuro Inpatient Medical Director

Delia Bakeman, DO Assistant Professor, Behavioral Neurology / Psychiatry

Week 3

Introduction to Brain Tumors & Neuro oncology

Denise Damek, MD Professor, Neurology Specialty: Neuro oncology

Kevin Lillehei, MD Chair, CU Department of Neurosurgery Professor, Neurosurgery

Specialty: Intracranial tumor recognition and eradication

Week 5

Week 4

Introduction to Neuro Degeneration & Alzheimer’s Disease

Huntington Potter, PhD Professor, Neurology Director, CU Alzheimer’s & Cognition Center

Peter Pressman, MD Professor, Neurology Assistant Professor, Behavioral Neurology

Introduction to Movement Disorders and Neural Engineering!

Cristin Welle, PhD

Associate Professor & Vice Chair of Research, Department of Neurosurgery

Daniel Kramer, MD Assistant Professor, Neurosurgery Director, Brain-Computer Interface Program

Alex Baumgartner, MD Assistant Professor, Neurology

Week 6

Introduction to Psychiatry and Substance Abuse Science

Christian Hopfer, MD Professor, Department of Psychiatry Institute for Behavioral Genetics

Kent Hutchison, PhD Professor, Department of Psychiatry Director, Rocky Mountain Center for Research on Cannabinoids

TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY TASK FORCE

Hosted and coordinated by the Neuroscience Innovation Initiative

In the summer of 2022, a group of physicians, researchers and educators across the campus began meeting around the topic of Traumatic Brain Injury. It was clear that the many programs and services offered throughout the system were siloed, with some clinics replicating efforts, while others were unaware of what resources existed. Because of a lack of consistency and communication, the overall services to patients were fragmented, and we had no way to measure outcomes, because most patients were lost after their initial inpatient stay.

Protocols were written for inpatients and built into the electronic medical record system. Clinics began talking with each other, and troubleshooting their lack of funding and resources. The outpatient “concussion” programs began to formalize their interdisciplinary approaches. The Emergency Department began to push recommended “best practice” TBI questions for all trauma patients. The Neuro ICU began collecting blood samples for biomarker research and our campus became part of a multi-site TBI study with Model System Centers across the country, including Craig Rehabilitation Hospital in Denver.

Although there have been more than forty people involved at any given time, the NII wishes to thank the following task force members who have worked so hard and offered so much expertise to this effort.

Delia Bakeman, DO Department of Neurology

Lisa RoeskeAnderson, MD

Marcus Institute for Brain Health

Jen Maitlen, RN Clinical Research Coordinator Department of Neurosurgery

Michael Greher, PhD Department of Neurosurgery

Nathan Odom, MD Department of PM&R

Sherrie

DO CU Sports Medicine & Performance Center

Kelly Bookman, MD Department of Emergency Medicine

NII Events & Accomplishments

Kevin Lillehei, MD Department of Neurosurgery

Amanda Hoffman Occupational Therapist Department of PM&R

Kaylee Skidmore Director, Inpatient Rehab Operations

Jeffrey Huber, PA Trauma & Acute Care Surgery

Ben Usatch, MD Emergency Medicine Highlands Ranch Hospital

Amanda

UCHealth Inverness Orthopedics and Spine Surgery Center

NP,

RN Department of Neurosurgery Hospital

Brill,

MSN,

Ballantine Talmadge,

David B. Arciniegas, MD

Department of Neurology

Megan Branston, DO

NII Sponsors Neuro Immunology Conference

In the Spring of 2023, the Neuro Immunology & Neuro Virology NII work group, brought together researchers from throughout the campus, and flew in a special guest, Dr. Robyn Klein from the University of Washington.

Thank you to those who contributed to this day of learning, with many varied topics, such as neuro virology, central nervous system vulnerability, Neurovirulence of Enterovirus D68, Bystander CD8+ T cells, neuro demyelination, Microglial Ablation During Recovery From MS-like Injury, Lipid and lipoprotein metabolism, Microglia-Oligodendrocyte interactions in immune-mediated demyelination, neuro immunity and MS Treatment Over a Lifetime & Exploring Autoimmune Encephalitis:

Robyn S. Klein, MD, PhD

Maria Nagel, MD Department of Neurology

David Beckham, MD Depts of Neurology & Infectious Diseases

Andrew Bubak, PhD Assistant Professor in Neurology

Joshua Frost, PhD Research Assistant in Neurology

Jennifer Berger, PhD Postdoctoral Fellow in Immunology & Microbiology

Wendy Macklin, PhD Department of Cell & Developmental Biology

Ethan Hughes, PhD Department of Cell & DB

Andrew Lapato, Ph.D. Postdoctoral fellow, Macklin lab

Kimberley D Bruce, PhD Assistant Professor

Oscar Mendez, PhD Postdoctoral fellow, Appel lab, Ethan Hughes, PhD Associate Professor

John Corboy, MD Department of Neurology

Amanda Piquet, MD Department of Neurology

The Robert E. and Louise F. Dunn Distinguished Professor of Medical Sciences, Departments of Medicine and Pathology and Immunology Washington University Medicine Division of Infectious Disease

St. Louis, MO

NII Raises Seed Funding

In July of 2023, the NII hosted a high end wine tasting at the home of Dr. & Mrs. James Ogsbury

A very old, great Rhone vertical tasting (provided by the Ogsbury’s) was paired with exceptional food, provided by Lee Tuchfarber, Advisory Council member for the NII. It was a night of fabulous wine and food, several sommeliers, some authors, and some generous donors! $25,000 was raised and has been used to host events, print and design materials, purchase promotional items and host guest speakers.

THANK YOU TO OUR NEUROSCIENCE INNOVATION INITIATIVE COMMUNITY ADVISORY COUNCIL

In the winter of 2020, a group of community advisors joined together in an effort to support the mission of the NII. They met several times, helped develop all the presentations to the Chancellor and Dean of the School of Medicine, supported various gatherings and events, and worked diligently to move this initiative forward. We are very grateful to this group of extraordinary volunteers.

Stan Anderson

CEO, Insight Vision Group. Former Senior VP, Vail Valley Medical Group; Former Owner, Strategic Relationships LLC, Former VP of Operations, Health Inventures.

Jennifer Brusstar

Executive Director, Tug McGraw Foundation in Napa, CA at the Veteran’s Home of CA, very engaged with neuroscience research and the military.

Dr. Lotta Granholm

Executive Director, Knoebel Institute for Healthy Aging at the University of Denver. Nationally recognized Neuroscience Researcher in the areas of Alzheimer’s, Downs Syndrome, exosomes and artificial intelligence.

Dr. Richard Kelly (deceased) Philanthropist, PD patient, community leader. Former DU Trustee and former owner, Outrigger Hotels, Hawaii, Fiji & Costa Rica.

Giancarlo Macchiarella

Former brain tumor patient, restaurateur in Vail and L.A., community leader

Jodi Novak

Former brain tumor patient – very involved in the national brain tumor community, book author.

NII Events & Accomplishments

Dr. Jay Ogsbury

Retired Neurosurgeon, community leader, leader in Healthcare policy & reform, major donor for endowed chair in Neurosurgery at CU.

Melanie

Former patient, enthusiastic brain tumor survivor, wedding planner, highly engaged with Craig Rehabilitation Center. Many community connections, heavy event expertise.

Rob Schwartz

Former CU Neuro Spine patient. Community leader, former Chair, Connecticut Alcohol & Drug Abuse Commission; former Assistant Administrator, Yale-New Haven Medical Center; former Chief of Staff for Joe Lieberman. Current Producer & Investor, International Documentary on the life of Menachem Begin entitled “Upheaval.”

Lee Tuchfarber

CEO of “Social Communities” for seniors. Community leader in northern Colorado and Aspen.

Dan Weyland

Philanthropist, community leader, consultant & project manager for several HealthONE Medical Office Buildings. Instrumental in formation of HCP (property arm of HCA – Health Corporation of America).

WHAT'S NEXT for NEUROSCIENCES at CU School of Medicine

In early January of 2025, our new Dean, Dr. John Sampson, hosted a strategic planning session with all the chairs of the various Departments at the CU School of Medicine. The CU Trustees and UCHealth had identified five broad strategic priorities for the Anschutz Campus. These included Cardiology, Transplant, Cancer, Ortho and Neuroscience. The day consisted of discussions and brief presentations in each of these five areas. We are grateful to Cristin Welle, PhD and Enrique Alvarez, MD, PhD for representing all of us under the Neuroscience Umbrella. Thanks to the work and coordination of the NII, work groups were quickly put together and projects submitted, including governance plans, research plans, short term and long term goals. The Neuroscience Chairs chose Neuro Modulation and Neuro Immunology/ Virology/Inflammation as our two main, broad priorities. To the right is a brief overview of the long term plans for these areas.

Broad Overview and Goal in Neuromodulation at CU Anschutz:

5 year goal: Center for Precision Neuromodulation: CU Anschutz will be an international destination for precision neuromodulation therapy to treat cognitive, psychiatric, and motor conditions. In the rapidly growing market for neuromodulation approaches, the Center for Precision Neuromodulation will be distinguished by its unique ability to apply smart stimulation optimized for patient-specific outcomes

Broad Overview and Goal in Neuro Immunology & Neuro Inflammation at CU Anschutz:

5 year goal: Center for Advanced Neuro Immunology & Neuro Inflammation: CU Anschutz will become the world’s largest authority on diagnostics for MS. Develop the largest personalized bank of medical biostats in the country, applying spatial proteomic and transcriptomics to neurimmuno/inflammatory disease. We will develop new neuroimmunological disruptors for brain tumor, MS, dementia, TBI and psychiatric disease, and generate multiple new neuroimmune based preclinical lead treatments, including drugs, cell-based therapies and vaccines. CU Anschutz will become the destination in this region for healthy brain aging, recovery & restoration.

At the end of the planning day, after much discussion and many presentations on all the top priorities, a vote was taken by everyone present. We are happy to report that the Neurosciences “won” as the top two priorities for this campus. On behalf of the Neuroscience Innovation Initiative, the various chairs involved and the numerous faculty members who contributed to these latest strategic planning efforts, we would like to thank Dean Sampson for his vision and interest in the Neurosciences. We are all looking forward to what happens next!