Joanna Szmydynger-Chodobska, Ph.D. Research Interests

Dr. Szmydynger-Chodobska’s research centers on the physiology and pathology of the choroid plexus-CSF system. Using complementary functional, molecular, and immunochemical techniques, she studies the system under both in vivo and in vitro conditions.

In particular, Dr. Szmydynger-Chodobska is examining how the choroid plexus, which makes the CSF, responds to traumatic brain injury. The choroid plexus epithelium secretes neuropeptides, growth factors, and cytokines. Dr. Szmydynger-Chodobska is working to identify the mechanisms by which these substances control the internal milieu of the damaged brain.

The choroid plexus mediates the inflammation that follows traumatic brain injury. By investigating the inflammatory response and its role in the secondary brain injury, Dr. Szmydynger-Chodobska is seeking molecular targets for new therapies to counter the secondary injury.