Xuefang (Sophie) Ren
Assistant Professor
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
McGovern Medical School
Department of Neurosurgery
The Ren’s laboratory focuses on understanding the mechanisms and pathophysiological changes after brain injury, including subarachnoid hemorrhage, ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke, traumatic brain injury, and white matter disease. We investigate the mechanisms of blood-brain barrier damage, neuronal death, peripheral inflammation, and long-term plasticity processes after brain injury. We also use behavioral animal models, to investigate motor and cognitive activities on neuronal plasticity and long-term recovery from relevant animal disease models. Our research topics include immunology, mitochondria, micoRNAs, and molecular targets after brain injury. In vivo, ex vivo, and in vitro models are integrated in our research toolbox. In order to translate basic science to clinical significance, we perform “bedside-to-bench-back-to-bedside” studies by working closely with physicians and neurosurgeons. Our long-term goal devotes to finding out effective therapeutics for treating these devastating neurological diseases.
McGovern Medical School Faculty
Education & Training
MD, MS, Fudan University, 2006
PhD, Ulm University, 2009