Thesis Advisor: Dr. Patrick Forcelli
Research Interests: Neuropharmacology
Education:
Western Kentucky University, B.S. Chemistry, 2019
Georgetown University, M.S. Pharmacology, 2022
About: Abbas is currently exploring the contribution of cellular senescence to HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND). After examining the role of senescent cells in epileptogenesis and how ablating them rescues cognitive deficits and mitigates seizure burden, the scope of the project has shifted to exploring cellular senescence in a different disease model. Senescent cells accumulate in neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s Disease, and it is hypothesized that the progression of HAND will lead to a higher number of cells exhibiting the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). This research aims to characterize the senescent phenotype in HAND using gp120 transgenic mice that manifest neuropathological features seen in human HIV brains. In addition, the research aims to elucidate what types of neural and glial cells colocalize with senescent cells, as well as how ablating them will improve motor and cognitive function through the progression of HAND.
Rotations:
Dr. Nady Golestaneh
Dr. Ludise Malkova
Dr. Patrick Forcelli
Academic Appointment(s)
- Primary
- PhD Student, PhD Program in Pharmacology & Physiology
- PhD Student, Forcelli Lab