My laboratory explores the functioning of the ‘glymphatic system’ – the waste disposal system of the brain. We develop MRI methods and computational fluid dynamics analysis approaches to track how the glymphatic and lymphatic systems are coupled and impacted in neurodegenerative disease states.
Neurovascular Disease
Affiliated Faculty
My laboratory uses structural biology techniques to understand the mechanisms by which signaling is disrupted in vascular disease.
Our lab investigates the molecular and cellular mechanisms of vascular dysfunction in dementia, with a focus on the blood-brain barrier and microvascular remodeling. We use advanced in vivo imaging to visualize cerebrovascular and neuroglial interactions in real time in mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease and vascular cognitive impairment.
The Gunel lab has three branches: molecular genetics of intercranial aneurysms, molecular genetics and biology of cavernous malformations and lastly, cerebral malformations in developmental structural brain disorders.
My lab studies neuroinflammatory responses in cerebrovascular diseases and neurodegeneration, including in rodent models and using patient samples. We are particularly interested in understanding the mechanisms by which inflammation is resolved and identifying treatment targets that prevent disease and/or aid in neurological recovery.
We investigate neurovascular interactions, especially the role of the lymphatic vasculature of the meninges, as a communication route between the central nervous system and the immune system. We use novel imaging approaches in mice and humans to assess the therapeutic potential of meningeal lymphatic vessels to treat neurological diseases.