David Devilbiss, Ph.D., an assistant professor at Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine, is spearheading research into traumatic brain injury (TBI) and concussion, driven by a personal experience. His work aims to develop diagnostics and treatments to mitigate cognitive impairments resulting from brain injuries.
Novel Therapeutic Approaches for TBI
Devilbiss's research explores the potential of small molecule compounds to enhance neurotrophic systems as treatments for TBI and other brain injuries. These compounds have demonstrated promising results in early-phase clinical trials for Alzheimer’s disease, suggesting a potential avenue for cognitive recovery in TBI patients.
"Interestingly, these compounds don't do much in a healthy young adult brain," Devilbiss explained. "But if you have mild cognitive impairment, or Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease, or if you have a TBI, these compounds may not only improve cognitive function but also improve the underlying neurobiology."
Investigating the Locus Coeruleus-Norepinephrine System
His team is also studying the regulation of neural activity and cognition by the locus coeruleus-norepinephrine (LC-NE) system, a critical modulator of brain functions, including attention, memory, decision-making, and sensory processing, particularly in response to stress and traumatic brain injury. This research aims to understand how the LC-NE system can be targeted to improve cognitive outcomes after TBI.
Collaborative Research Environment
Much of this work has involved collaboration with TBI researchers within the Department of Neuroscience and across departments in the Rowan-Virtua School of Translational Biomedical Engineering & Sciences. Devilbiss credits this supportive research environment for fostering translational linkages.
"The collaborative environment here at Rowan has been essential in advancing our research," he said. "I feel very lucky to be in a place where these translational linkages are possible."
