Scott R. Whittemore, Ph.D.
Professor of Neurological Surgery
Vice Chair for Research
University of Vermont
Additional Training
Postdoctoral training at UC Irvine, Uppsala University.
Twelve years on the faculty at the University of Miami
Summary of Research Interests
My laboratory utilizes molecular and cellular biological techniques to address repair in spinal cord injury (SCI). When designing strategies to facilitate functional restoration in SCI, three issues need to be considered: 1) replacement of lost neurons, 2) remyelination of de-myelinated and/or regenerating axons, and 3) inducing axotomized descending motor and ascending sensory axons to regenerate. We utilize stem cells as a source for transplanted cells and either transplant them directly into the injured spinal cord or genetically modify them with genes that instruct them to become specific cell types. We also modify the injured spinal cord to facilitate stem cell differentiation and also block the molecules that prevent regeneration.
Email: swhittemore@louisville.edu
