Research Programs and Labs Masthead

Laboratory Focus

Our group studies molecular mechanisms involved in neurodegenerative disease pathology, focusing on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD).

A major focus of our research is the role of the blood-CSF barrier (BCSFB) that separates the blood from the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) bathing neurons. We use human patient samples as well as various cellular models to investigate changes in this barrier in neurodegenerative diseases, and explore pathways involved in its deregulation. We hope such findings will translate into improved therapeutic drug delivery into the central nervous system for patients.

Other interests in the lab include the role of RNA binding proteins in ALS and FTD pathobiology.

Dr. Bakkar received her doctorate from The Ohio State University in molecular biology in the laboratory of Dr. Denis Guttridge, focusing on NF-kappaB signaling pathways involved in muscle development and regeneration. She completed two postdoctoral fellowships, one at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center and one at Barrow Neurological Institute as part of Dr. Robert Bowser’s laboratory.

Nadine Bakkar, PhD
Nadine Bakkar, PhD
Assistant Professor, Neurobiology

Contact Information

Nadine Bakkar, PhD
Assistant Professor, Neurobiology
Nadine.Bakkar@DignityHealth.org