Laboratory of Dr. Binhai Zheng

Axon Regeneration in the Mammalian CNS

The capacity to regenerate axons in the adult mammalian central nervous system (CNS) after traumatic injuries is extremely limited. We are interested in the molecular mechanisms of axon regeneration failure in the CNS. The primary goal of the current research is to identify the major contributors of axon regeneration failure. Using a combination of molecular biology, mouse genetics, in vitro neuronal culture and mouse models of spinal cord injury, we study the role of myelin-derived axon outgrowth inhibitors such as Nogo and chemorepulsive axon guidance molecules such as Semaphorins and Ephrins in regeneration block. Recently, we have started to explore two exciting new areas: in vivo imaging with two-photon microscopy to study axonal behavior after injury, and genetically manipulating human embryonic stem cells to study their developmental and therapeutic potential. We hope our study will lead to the development of novel therapeutic intervention for spinal cord injury, white matter stroke and certain neurodegenerative disorders.