Thaddeus W
- Research Program Mentor
PhD candidate at University of Virginia
Expertise
Neuroscience, neurodegeneration, circadian rhythms, neuroimmunology
Bio
Hi! My name is Thaddeus, I'm a PhD candidate studying Neuroscience at the University of Virginia. My current research is focused on the causes of circadian rhythm disruptions in Alzheimer's disease. I'm particularly interested in the effects that microglia, the resident immune cell of the brain, and cholesterol metabolism may have in altering circadian rhythms in neurodegeneration. Before starting my PhD I worked at the National Institutes of Health studying the role of microglia and immune signaling in depression and anxiety. For my undergraduate degree I attended Princeton University where I researched the role of the cerebellum in autism spectrum disorder. I also have a lot of different interests outside of lab! I love outdoor activities like backpacking, rock climbing, and mountain biking. I also enjoy reading and knitting.Project ideas
The causes of sleep disruptions in neurodegeneration
Sleep disruptions are a symptom of many different neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease. Why do these very different diseases all share this one symptom? Is there one common cause of sleep disruptions in neurodegeneration or do different diseases arrive at this symptom via different pathways?
How does the brain's immune system respond to Alzheimer's disease?
Microglia, the resident immune cells of the brain, change dramatically in Alzheimer's disease. Is this a helpful response or a destructive one? Recent research has provided evidence for both sides. How might this cell type both protect against and exacerbate the progression of Alzheimer's disease?