# Neuroimmunology of Disease Training Program

> **NIH NIH T32** · UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA MEDICAL CENTER · 2020 · $187,718

## Abstract

ABSTRACT
Despite advances in basic and translational neuroscience research, the development of new therapeutics
remains in want. The National Institutes of Health has recognized the need to translate bench research to
therapies that improve human disease outcomes and initiated programs that train researchers who can
effectively conceptualize neurological disease processes. One critical “in need” area is in the discipline of
neuroimmunity. This research area remains understudied despite its close linkage to the pathobiology of
degenerative, infectious, developmental, and psychiatric disorders. To these ends, our training goal is to
provide talented students with a fundamental understanding of peripheral and central immunology as it affects
neuronal injury, differentiation, regeneration, and protection. The program is designed to provide the student
with broad exposure to research methods that facilitate technical proficiency. The program ensures that the
student will acquire broad knowledge in neuroimmunity. This would allow critical thinking for how inflammation
affects the pathogenesis and treatment of neurological disorders. Several approaches are proposed to achieve
this goal. First, is the use of our newly published textbook Neuroimmune Pharmacology (2nd Ed.) designed
specifically as a coursework guide in neuroscience, immunology, and pharmacology. Second, is in developing
a cross discipline mentorship training to provide the student with opportunities to intersect studies of immunity
and neural function. Third, are “unique” research experiences in systems biology, cell signaling, glial and
neuronal biology, human disease models and synaptic physiology. These opportunities serve to complement
research in neural genetics, development, repair, and pharmacology. Fourth, are formal student presentations
to interdisciplinary basic neuroscientists and supervisory committees to acquire research feedback in design,
interpretation and conceptualization of ongoing research activities. This serves to challenge existing paradigms
and existing student perceptions. Fifth, are uniquely offered cross-discipline team mentoring, teaching, and
clinical neurological experiences. Sixth, are cross-disciplinary internships where students will complete thesis
component(s) in another laboratory using a different research approach and mentor. Seventh, are sustained
community, university and logistical support. By coordinating the training efforts of divergent research groups
linked by common interests in neuroimmunity trainees will develop deeper understandings of innate and
adaptive immunity in relationship to neurologic disease. Such trainees will be better prepared to develop
successful careers in studies of disease pathobiology and therapeutic interventions for human nervous system
disorders.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 9949807
- **Project number:** 5T32NS105594-03
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA MEDICAL CENTER
- **Principal Investigator:** Howard E Gendelman
- **Activity code:** T32 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $187,718
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2018-07-01 → 2023-06-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/9949807

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 9949807, Neuroimmunology of Disease Training Program (5T32NS105594-03). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-23 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/9949807. Licensed CC0.

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