Kevin Park, Ph.D.

Mechanisms of Axon Regeneration and Neuroprotection

My lab is interested in understanding the mechanisms that account for failure of axon regeneration and the demise of neurons after injury in the central nervous system (CNS). Using in vivo models of nerve regeneration and injury, my lab focuses on number of important questions relevant to neural repair.

1. What are the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms for the limited axon regeneration and cell death after CNS injury?
2. Can regenerating axons form appropriate connection and restore functional recovery in the CNS?
3. Can we use combinatorial strategies to further improve axon regeneration and functional recovery?

Successful functional recovery after spinal cord injury requires multiple steps. Firstly, axotomized neurons must remain healthy and viable in order to re-grow axons. Correct path-finding of regenerating axons into the distal target regions is important for proper functional outcomes. Regenerating axons require remyelination in order to convey efficient electrical signals. Sustained long distance axon regeneration seen after genetic manipulation of specific genes is providing opportunities to explore these questions and to ultimately probe for potential therapeutic interventions against paralyzing and neurodegenerative conditions.