Awarded in 2011
Home Department: Neurosciences
Faculty Advisors: Ben Barres (Neurobiology), Tom Clandinin (Neurobiology), Tom Wandless (Chemical & Systems Biology), and Ricardo Dolmetsch (Neurobiology)

Research Title: Molecular mechanisms of axon degeneration

Research Description: Degeneration of the nerve fibers, or axons, is a pivotal event in many neurodegenerative diseases such as glaucoma, Alzheimer's, and stroke; however, the mechanisms that regulate this process remain largely unclear. How do axons degenerate, and how can we delay or prevent the process from occurring to improve clinical outcome in nerve injuries or diseases? To address these questions, Jack studies a genetic mutation (Wlds) that confers robust axonal protection from various physical injuries and chemical insults. Through a series of genetic, biochemical, and proteomic approaches, he hopes to understand the neuroprotective mechanism of the mutant Wlds protein and the molecular events that orchestrate the process of axonal degeneration and ultimately identify novel therapeutic targets to treat neurological injuries and diseases.

WHERE IS HE NOW?

Jack is a Neurocritical Care physician fellow at the Stanford University Medical Center.