Jyoti Watters
Position title: Professor, Comparative Biosciences
Email: jjwatters@wisc.edu
Phone: Molecular mechanisms employed by microglia; Central nervous system
Address:
Education
BS 1990 University of Arizona - Tuscon, Tuscon, AZ
PhD 1997 University of Washington, Seattle, WA
Postdoctoral position: University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
NIH Biosketch
PubMed Publications
Research Focus
Hyperactivation of microglial cells has been implicated in the progression and neuronal injury sustained as a result of several neurodegenerative and inflammatory diseases, many of which are sexually dimorphic. Microglia, mononuclear phagocytic immune cells residing in the CNS, are among the first cell types to respond to neuronal injury. Upon their activation, they synthesize and secrete inflammatory mediators that can be neurotoxic when produced in excess. Therefore, identification of agents that can reduce or prevent their activation is of great clinical importance. The overall goal of my research program is to investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms regulating microglial phenotype transition and function in the context of CNS pathology and recovery in chronic neuroinflammatory disorders. We focus in particular on identifying key signal transduction and transcription factor activation pathways responsible for controlling microglial inflammatory and neurotrophic gene expression. We also have projects designed to understand microglial regulatory mechanisms in the developing and aging CNS, and how sex influences these processes. Our recent work is aimed at defining microRNAs and histone modifications that contribute to microglial plasticity.
Program Activities
- Joined ERP Program: 2002
- ERP T32 Faculty Trainer
Trainees
No current ERP students
Past ERP students
- Ann Baker (MS)