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Behavioral Science Core

Brain Imaging Core

Cellular Morphology Core

Genetics Core

Animal Behavior Core

Instrument Development Laboratory Core

Richard Morrison, Ph.D.

Professor of Neurological Surgery
Research Affiliate, Center on Human Development and Disability
yael@uw.edu
206-543-9654
University of Washington
Box 356470
Seattle, WA 98195-6470

Dr. Morrison's research centers on elucidating the regulation of neuronal death at the molecular level, with the goal of finding ways to prevent loss of neurons and preserve brain function and to shed light on how disruptions in the regulation of neuronal cell death can affect development. His studies emphasize the molecular and cellular biology of tumor suppressor genes and their roles in regulation of neuronal development and responses to injury.

Using a transgenic mouse model, Morrison is studying the relationship between neuronal survival and expression of the tumor suppressor gene p53. He and his colleagues have found that expression of p53 may be important in promoting neuronal degeneration in some forms of brain injury. Morrison is also investigating how different forms of neuronal injury activate discrete apoptotic pathways, specific cascades of biochemical events that lead to neuronal cell death, and determining which proteins take part in which pathways. The ultimate goal is to preserve the structural and functional integrity of the brain and spinal cord by blocking the biochemical pathways that culminate in neuronal cell death following injury and disease.

Richard Morrison's Neuroscience web page

Department of Neuroscience Surgery web page

CHDD Outlook 2011 Issue#3- Enzyme Inhibitors May Block Injury from Stroke, Promote Recovery

CHDD Outlook article (2005)

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