Scientific Focus
Current Research Interests
Dr. Tolwani's current research focuses on evaluating the therapeutic potential of neurotrophins, molecules supporting survival and differentiation of neuronal populations, using in vivo model systems. Dr. Tolwani has two independent projects evaluating the efficacy of neurotrophins as therapeutic agents for neurodegenerative diseases. Specifically, engineered mice overexpressing brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) are being used for studies of Parkinson+s Disease. This unique mouse model will be used to evaluate BDNFÂ’s potential to protect and accelerate recovery of injured nigrostriatial neurons. Additionally, Dr. Tolwani is evaluating the effect of neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) in treating a mouse model of a peripheral neuropathy. Here we evaluate how NT-3, a member of the neurotrophin family which specifically supports neurons projecting large caliber axons, when delivered by gene therapy using advenoviral vectors, can prevent or reduce the extent of axonal degeneration in the peripheral myelin protein-22 (PMP22) mouse model of peripheral neuropathy.
Publications
- BDNF overexpression increases dendrite complexity in hippocampal dentate gyrus. Neuroscience. 2002; (3): 795-805
- Animal models for motor neuron disease. Lab Anim Sci. 1999; (5): 480-7
- Experimental models of Parkinson's disease: insights from many models. Lab Anim Sci. 1999; (4): 363-71
- Experimental models of peripheral neuropathies. Lab Anim Sci. 1999; (6): 588-99
- Neurons and mechanisms of neuronal death in neurodegenerative diseases: a brief review. Lab Anim Sci. 1999; (4): 358-62
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