Current Research

Researchers at the Institute for Brain and Immune Disorders (IBID) have contributed to recent insights into how the brain and immune system can affect each other. They have reported that drugs which are known to work in the brain also can alter immune cell function. To explore the complex, but highly interesting interactions between the brain and the immune system, the Institute has assembled an interdisciplinary team with expertise in neuroscience, immunology, infectious diseases, pharmacology, addiction medicine, and alternative medicine.

Under the guidance of Scientific Director Phillip K. Peterson, M.D., IBID is organized into three centers:

Center for Brain Injury

A typical investigation: The role of cytokines and inflammation in brain trauma and Alzheimer's disease.

CNS Infections - G. Gekker, J. Lokensgard
HIV/AIDS - R. Schut, M. Simpson
Neurotoxicity - J. Ding, S. Hu, S. Sheng
CFS - P. Marshall, P. Peterson, C. Schenck
Neurotrauma - T. Bergman, M. Biros, G. Rockswold, R. Sutton

Center for Addictive Disorders

Typical investigations: (i) Vaccination against cigarette smoking; (ii) identification of genes expressed in the brain that are related to addiction.

M. Bullock, G. Carlson, D. Keyler, Y. Hieda, P. Pentel, J. Valentine

Center for Alternative Medicine & Immunomodulation

A typical investigation: Acupuncture treatment for alcoholism.

M. Bullock, P. Culliton, T. Kiresuk, J. Valentine

Printing Information