The Rangaraju Lab

The Rangaraju Lab focuses on exploring immune-mediated mechanisms of neurodegeneration and post- ischemic injury in the brain. We leverage pre-clinical and in vitro models, as well as multi-omics modalities to assess molecular changes occurring in diverse classes of neurons and glial cells in different neurological disease contexts. We are also actively involved in clinical research in stroke, via research on plasma-based protein biomarkers to identify the underlying etiology of stroke and to guide risk- stratification. Since 2016, we have received funding from the NIH (NINDS, NIA), American Brain Foundation, and the Alzheimer’s Association.

Our group has identified promising therapeutic targets to modulate microglia-mediated mechanisms in neurodegeneration and stroke. One example is the potassium channel, Kv1.3, that is over-expressed in a subset of pro-inflammatory microglia and macrophages in the brain in Alzheimer’s disease, as well as in the sub-acute phase following ischemic stroke. Using pharmacological and genetic approaches to manipulate Kv1.3, we have identified Kv1.3 channels as key regulators of neuroinflammatory responses in these diseases.

Through the use of pre-clinical mouse models, we have also developed novel in vivo tools to assess protein-level (proteomic) mechanisms of disease that are unique to different brain cell types. To this end, we have developed novel approaches to label proteins in brain cell types of interest and apply mass spectrometry-based proteomics to identify early molecular changes occurring in neurons and glial cells in different disease contexts. Many of these can be high-value therapeutic targets for disease modification.

We provide a world-class work and training environment for all lab members and facilitate collective and individual scientific excellence and professional growth. We believe in multi-disciplinary and collaborative science, and our inclusive culture welcomes diverse perspectives and ideas. We prioritize mentoring of trainees using both individualized and group-based approaches. As a member of the neurology and neuroscience communities at Yale University, we always welcome interested trainees and scientists who wish to connect with us to explore opportunities in our lab.