Osama Harraz, Ph.D.

Research

My lab will study the mechanisms that protect naked mole rats against neurodegeneration. Unlike humans and other mammals, naked mole rats can survive prolonged periods of low oxygen—known as hypoxia—without sustaining brain damage. They also display a natural resistance to neurodegeneration, which makes them a unique model for studying these injurious processes. Our preliminary observations reveal that, compared with mice, naked mole rats have a unique brain vascular system—which could provide their neurons with a more robust blood supply. Now, combining advanced imaging techniques with methods for tracking neuronal activity and gene expression, my lab will assess whether this expanded vascular architecture protects the brain from hypoxia by boosting blood flow, particularly to neurons that are active and require extra oxygen. We will also identify the genes and molecular pathways that establish this unique neurovascular arrangement and that enhance resistance to neurodegeneration. Our work could lead to the discovery of interventions that preserve healthy brain function with aging and protect against neurological decline in conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.