Laboratory of Guoku Hu, PhD
Laboratory Goals
Investigating the intricate communication mechanisms mediated by EVs and the ciliary functions within neural cells holds the key to unraveling disease progression and potential therapeutic targets. Furthermore, my focus extends to exploring the therapeutic potential of EVs derived from regulatory T cells and stem cells. The interplay between these specialized vesicles and the intricate signaling networks involved in neurodegenerative processes provides a promising avenue for developing novel therapeutic interventions aimed at mitigating the impact of these debilitating disorders. By delving into these multifaceted aspects, I aim to contribute to advancing our understanding of neurodegeneration and fostering the development of innovative therapeutic strategies.
Techniques used in the laboratory
- Molecular biology
- Neurobiology
- Rodent models
- Bioinformatics
Collaborators
Professor, UNMC Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience
Director, UNMC Center for Substance Abuse Research
Professor, Department of Neurological Sciences
Senior Associate Dean of Research and Development, College of Medicine
Director, Center for Integrative and Translational Neuroscience
Margaret R. Larson Professor of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases
Chair, UNMC Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience
Professor & Vice Chair for Administration, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Professor, Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy
Associate Professor, UNMC Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience
Associate Professor, Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine
Associate Professor and Interim Bioimaging Core Lab Director, Radiology Research Division
Funding
Multiple PI: Hu/Chivero/Gurumurthy
Source: NIH R21DA046831
The goal of this proposal is to design and develop miRNA-depleted-extracellular vesicles (EV) loaded with specific miRNAs for in vivo delivery as a means to ameliorate HIV protein (Tat) & cocaine-induced microglial activation in the brain.
Role: MPI
Multiple PI: Hu/Guo
Source: NIH R21DA042704
The goal of this proposal is to design and develop an extracellular vesicle (EV)-based strategy of in vivo anti-microRNA (miR) delivery as a means to ameliorate morphine & HIV protein (Tat)-induced microglial activation & migration in the brain.
Role: MPI
Multiple PI: Buch/Hu
Source: NIH R01MH112848
The overarching goal of this application is to explore the mechanisms by which HIV Tat mediates synaptodendritic injury & microglial activation via intercellular cross talk involving extracellular vesicles (EVs) and their fingerprint cargo of miRNAs.
Role: MPI
Multiple PI: Buch/Hu/Guo
Source: NIH R01DA043138
The goal of the proposed research is to investigate the role of HIV Tat and cocaine in mediating alterations in microglial migration & activation via epigenetic regulation of miRNAs.
Role: Co-PI