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Raimondo D'Ambrosio, Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Neurological Surgery
Research Affiliate, Center on Human Development and Disability
206-897-4710
raid@uw.edu
University of Washington
Box 359915
Seattle, WA 98195-9915

Dr. D'Ambrosio's research focuses on the basic mechanisms of posttraumatic epilepsy. A major goal of his research is to understand how glial cells may influence the excitability and function of neurons, under both normal and pathological conditions.

In experiments with rats D’Ambrosio has found that, following traumatic brain injury, glial cells have significant changes in their membrane electrical properties and capability to regulate ions in the extracellular space of the brain. Such pathophysiological changes in glia contribute to the generation of synchronous discharge of neurons and significantly impact neuronal function. He has also developed a rodent model of posttraumatic epilepsy, in which chronic spontaneous recurrent partial seizures appear after a single episode of fluid percussion injury, a clinically relevant model of traumatic brain injury in the rat. D'Ambrosio is therefore investigating novel antiepileptogenic treatments in this animal model, and how they may differently affect adults vs. pediatric patients.

Department of Neurological Surgery web page

CHDD Outlook article (2002)

University of Washington • Center on Human Development and Disability Box 357920 • Seattle WA 98195-7920 USA • 206-543-7701 •chdd@uw.edu