BATS

Date/Time:

Nov 20, 2015 - 12:00 PM

Location:

Hosts:

Speaker:

Title:

Liposome-Based MRI Contrast Agents; A Modular Architecture for Neurotransmitter Sensors

Abstract:

High-Field MRI allows for repeated non-invasive whole brain imaging which is not possible using traditional approaches. We have demonstrated the ability to observe molecular-level events with fMRI by employing sensors for molecules involved in neural signaling. Molecular fMRI has the potential to be a revolutionary technique for the study of neural circuits with long-term implications for human health. I present a novel MRI contrast mechanism, predicted to give large signal changes, that utilizes liposomes as ligand-gated water proton barriers.

Speaker:

Title:

The identification and characterization of proinflammatory platelet phenotypes during sepsis

Abstract:

Sepsis is a leading cause of death in intensive care units, with a mortality rate between 30-40%. Coagulopathies are common in sepsis, with platelets playing a major role. Changes in platelets have been proposed to be secondary to alterations in megakaryo- and thrombopoiesis. Although platelet count and morphology have been described in the context of sepsis, the transcriptomic and proteomic composition of megakaryocytes and platelets have not yet been fully evaluated. We hypothesize that sepsis results in aberrant megakaryopoiesis, resulting in proinflammatory platelet phenotypes, exacerbating the pathophysiology of this disease.