Olimpia Meucci, M.D., Ph.D.
Associate Professor

M.D. (1987) University of Naples
Ph.D. (1994) University of Naples
Phone: 215-762-2597  
Email: olimpia.meucci@drexel.edu

Summary of research interests

Research in this laboratory is focused on the intracellular mechanisms that regulate neuronal survival and differentiation, and the events that underlie the neuropathogenesis of AIDS and neuroinflammatory diseases. Our current interests are related to the involvement of chemokines in CNS physiology (i.e. neuronal survival, activity and development) and pathology (HIV-related neuropathology and neuro-inflammatory diseases). The aim is to determine the direct effects of chemokines on neurons, and identify the molecular mechanisms that regulate the activity of neuronal chemokine receptors including their interaction with major neurotransmitter and neuropeptide systems. Our immediate goal is to ascertain whether chemokines may act as both neuroprotective and neurotoxic agents depending on various cellular and environmental conditions, and relate these effects to their role(s) in CNS physiology and pathology. The long-term goal is to provide a substantial contribution to the characterization of chemokine actions within the CNS, and foster the development of therapeutic molecules against neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory diseases.

For more detailed information, please visit our lab web page at

http://www.pages.drexel.edu/~om29/index.html