Paulo Pires

Assistant Professor, Physiology
Assistant Professor, Surgery
Research Interests: 

Research in the Pires lab focuses on understanding the regulation of blood flow to the brain under normal and disease states. We are particularly interested in the communication between neurons, astrocytes (a type of glial cells) and endothelial cells that control blood flow to discrete regions of the cerebral cortex, a process called neurovascular coupling. Disease states, such as Alzheimer’s disease and hypertension, are known to alter neurovascular coupling in the brain, leading to improper blood flow delivery to neurons and, consequently, loss of brain cells and cognitive decline. Our lab studies particular receptors in endothelial cells that have their function diminished by Alzheimer’s disease and hypertension, and possible therapies that can improve their function. 

Degrees: 
PhD, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
MS, Cell and Structural Biology, Campinas State University, Sao Paulo, Brazil
BS, Biological Sciences, Sao Paulo State University, Sao Paulo, Brazil
Primary College, Department: