Recent MD/PhD Graduates
Our former MD/PhD students have gone on to successful residencies at places such as Washington University in St. Louis and Emory University. Our alumni hold prestigious jobs at NIH, the FDA, and in other leading and biotechnological institutions across the country.
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Astapova, Olga
Education: BS University of Michigan, Biochemistry
Graduate Program Affiliation: Pathology
Research Interests: Biology of reproduction
Clinical Interests: Gynecology
Advisor: Todd Leff, Ph.D., Pathology
Publications:
- Veiga-Lopez A, Astapova OI, Aizenberg EF, Lee JS, Padmanabhan V (2009) Developmental programming: contribution of prenatal androgen and estrogen to estradiol feedback systems and periovulatory hormone dynamics in sheep. Biology of Reproduction 80(4):718-25
- Savabieasfahani M, Kannan K, Astapova OI, Evans NP, and Padmanabhan V (2006) Developmental programming: differential effects of prenatal exposure to bisphenol-A or methoxychlor on reproductive function. Endocrinology 147(12):5956-66
Book Chapters:
- Astapova, O. and Leff, T. (2009) PPAR: A Key Regulator of Adipose Tissue Formation, Remodeling and Metabolism. in Adipose Tissue in Health and Disease. Wiley-VCH, Weinheim, Germany.
Abstracts:
- Astapova OI, Bergeron J, Campeau PM, Couture P, Gagne C, Hegele RA, and Leff TA (2010) Mechanistic Studies of a Diabetes-Associated Mutation in the DNA Binding Domain of Human PPARγ. 70th Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes Association, Orlando, FL. in press
- Astapova OI, Herkimer CH, Olton PO, Lee JS, Flak J, and Padmanabhan V (2006) Developmental Programming: defects in preovulatory estradiol rise and gonadotropin surge dynamics in prenatal testosterone-treated ewes are not programmed by androgenic action of testosterone. 39th Annual Meeting, Society for the Study of Reproduction. Omaha, NE. Biol Reprod Special Issue p 77 (Abstract 28)
- Astapova OI, Steckler T, Lee TM, Jackson LM, and Padmanabhan V (2005) Fetal programming: Advanced placentome differentiation in testosterone-treated sheep is facilitated by androgenic actions of testosterone. 38th Annual Meeting, Society for the Study of Reproduction. Quebec City, QC, Canada. Biol Reprod 70 (Suppl. 1), 209.
Awards/Honors:
2009 Graduate Student Research Award-WSU
2008-2009 MD PhD Student Representative-WSU
2007 Medical Student Research Symposium ( MD PhD), Second Place-WSU
2006 USDA National Research Initiative Fellow
Fellowships:
F30 Fellowship 1F30DK083195-01A2
National Institutes of Health
NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF DIABETES AND DIGESTIVE AND KIDNEY DISEASES
Title: Mechanistic studies of a PPAR-gamma mutation that causes lipodystrophy & diabetes
Issue Date: 09/04/2009
Outside Interests: Music, books, and food
Favorite Aspects of MD PhD Program: Very nice people and lots of support from the program administration and faculty
Atchison, Douglas

Education: BS Michigan State University, Human Biology
Graduate Program Affiliation: Physiology
Research Interests: Hypertension
Clinical Interests: Undecided
Advisor: William Beierwaltes, Physiology (Henry Ford Health Systems)
Publications/Presentations:
- The Influence of extracellular and intracellular calcium on the secretion of renin. Atchison DK, Beierwaltes WH. Pflugers Arch. 2013 Jan;465(1):59-69. doi: 10.1007/s00424-012-1107-x. Epub 2012 Apr 28.
- Hypercalcemia reduces plasma renin via Parathyroid hormone, renal interstitial calcium, and the calcium-sensing receptor. Atchison DK, Harding P, Beierwaltes WH. Hypertension 2011 Oct: 58(4):604-610. Epub 2011 Aug 8.
- Acute activation of the calcium-sensing receptor inhibits plasma renin activity in vivo. Atchison DK, Ortiz-Capisano MC, Beierwaltes WH. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol. 2010 Oct; 299(4):R1020-6. Epub 2010 Jul 21.
- Parathyroid hormone stimulates juxtaglomerular cell cAMP accumulation without stimulating renin release. Atchison DK, Harding P, Cecilia Ortiz-Capisano M, Peterson EL, Beierwaltes WH. Am J Physiol Renal Phyiol. 2012 Oct 15;p 303(8):F1157-65. Epub 2012 Aug. 15.
- Parathyroid hormone-related protein stimulates plasma renin activity via its anorexic effects on sodium chloride intake. Atchison DK, Westrick E, Szandzik DL, Gordish KL, Beierwaltes WH. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab. 2012 Aug; 303(4); E457-63.
- Adenosine inhibits renin release from juxtaglomerular cells via an A1 Receptor TRPC-mediated pathway. Ortiz-Capisano MC, Atchison DK, Harding P, Lasley RD, Beierwalted WH. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol. 2013 Jul 24.
- Anandamide inhibits transport-related oxygenconsumption in the loop of Henle by activating CB1 receptors. Silva GB, Atchison DK, Juncos LI, Garcia NH. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol. 2013 Feb15;304(4):F376-81. Epub 2012 Dec 5.
- Calcium-Sensing Receptor Activation In Vivo Decreases Plasma Renin Activity. Atchison DK, Beierwaltes WH. FASEB J. 22:3127, D496. Experimental Biology, New Orleans, LA, 2009.
- Calcium-inhibitable isoforms of adenylyl cyclase are not expressed in rat parathyroid. Atchison DK, Harding P, Beierwaltes WH. FASEB J. 21(S): 40: A39, 343. Experimental Biology, Washington DC, 2007.
- Effects of Lead on L-Type Voltage-Gated Calcium Channel Function in Smooth Muscle Cells. Atchison D.D., Cobbett P.J., Hajela R.K., Fink G.D., Atchison W.D. Abstract published at the Annual Meeting for The Society of Toxicology. March, 2006.
- Effects of Activation and Inhibition of Group I Metabotropic Glutamate Receptor Subtype 1 in Methylmercury-Induced Ca2 Dysregulation in Cerebellar Granule Cells in Rats. Segarra A., Atchison D.K., Atchison W.D. Abstract published at the Annual Meeting for The Society of Toxicology. March 2006.
- Effects of GABA-B Receptor Activation & Inhibition on Methylmercury-induced alterations of intracellular Ca in Rat cerebellar granule neurons. D.K. Atchison, W.D. Atchison. Abstract published at the Annual Meeting for The Society of Toxicology. March, 2005.
Posters:
- Calcium-inhibitable isoforms of adenylyl cyclase are not expressed in rat parathyroid. Poster presented at 2007 FASEB meeting.
Awards:
- Medical Student Research Day presentations 2007 and 2008
- MD PhD presentation day 2007 and 2008
Grants/Fellowships: 5 year NIH F30 Fellowship award 2009
Outside Interests: Sanchin-Ryu, working out, food
Favorite Aspects of the MD PhD Program: In addition to research that interested me, I wanted a place that gave a strong clinical education as well
Barkmeier, Daniel

Education: BS Illinois Wesleyan University
Graduate Program Affiliation: Molecular Biology & Genetics
Research Interests: Neuroscience
Clinical Interests: Radiology
Advisor: Jeff Loeb, M.D./Ph.D. Molecular Medicine & Genetics
Publications:
- Barkmeier DT, Senador D, Leclercq K, Pai D, Hua J, Boutros NN, Kaminski, RM. Electrical, Molecular and Behavioral Effects of Interictal Spiking in the Rat. Neurobiology of Disease. 2012. (In press).
- Barkmeier DT, Shah AK, Flanagan D, Atkinson MD, Agarwal R, Fuerst DR, Jafari-Khouzani K, Loeb JA. “High inter-reviewer variability of spike detection on intracranial EEG addressed by an automated multi-channel algorithm.” Clin Neurophysiol. 2011 Oct; [Epub ahead of print].
- Barkmeier DT and Loeb J. “An Animal Model to Study the Clinical Significanceof Interictal Spiking”. Clinical EEG and Neuroscience. 2009 Oct;40(4):234-8.
Abstracts:
- “An Animal Model of Interictal Spiking” – Society for Neuroscience, 2007
- “Relationship Between Interictal Spiking, Behavior, and Environment in a Rat Model” – ECNS/ISNIP Joint Conference, 2008
- “Interictal spiking in rat neocortex replicates the molecular and cellular changes of human neocortical epilepsy ” – American Epilepsy Society, 2008
- “Interictal Spikes as a Model for Epileptogenesis and Psychiatric Disorders” – Neuroscience 2009
Awards/Honors:
- Second Place – Poster Competition at ECNS/ISNIP Conference in Frankfurt, Germany, 2008
- Best Oral Presentation – Graduate Student Research Day, 2008
- Best poster – CMMG Retreat Poster Session, 2007
- Best presentation in session and second overall – Medical Student Research Symposium, 2007
- MD PhD Preclinical Excellence Award, 2006
Fellowships:
F30 Grant-“Translating human gene expression profiles of interictal spiking into a rat model”
Epilepsy Foundation Predoctoral Fellowship 2008
Outside Interests: Computer nerd stuff, Tae kwon Do, bowling, unusual movies and music
Favorite Aspects of MD PhD Program: Constant integration of the clinical and research sides of education
Beaumont, Thomas

Education: BS Biochemistry, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
Graduate Program Affiliation: Center for Molecular Medicine & Genetics
Research Interests: Neocortical epileptogenesis, Central synaptogenesis and synaptic plasticity, High-throughput approaches to genome and proteome analysis, Statistical analysis of microarray data, bioinformatics.
Clinical Interests: Neurosurgery, Neuro-oncology: pathology and treatment of CNS tumors, Neuroradiology & functional imaging
Advisor: Jeffrey Loeb, M.D./Ph.D. Molecular Medicine & Genetics, Neurology
Publications/Presentations:
- Beaumont TL and Loeb JA: Accumulation of PSD-95 in synaptic spines of human epileptic neocortex. 2008 (manuscript in preparation).
- Beaumont TL, Barkmeier DT, Yao B, Shah AK, Loeb JA: The human epileptic transcriptome reveals focal regions of CREB target gene induction. 2008 (manuscript submitted).
- Beaumont T, Kupsky WJ, Barger GR, and Sloan AE: Gliosarcoma with Multiple Extracranial Metastases: Case Report and Review of the Literature. j. Neurooncol 83(1):39-46, 2007.
- Rakhade SN, Yao B, Ahmed S, Beaumont T, Shah A, Draghici S, Krauss R, Chugani HT, Sood S, Loeb JA, A common pattern of persistent gene activation in human neocortical epileptic foci,. Ann Neurol 58:736-47, 2005.
- Dore-Duffy P, Balabanov R, Beaumont T, Katar M, The CNS Pericyte Response to Low Oxygen: Early Synthesis of Cyclopentatnone Prostaglandin of the J-Series. MicrovascRes 69:79-88, 2005.
- Balabanov R, Lisak D, Beaumont T, Lisak RP, and Dore-Duffy P: Expression of urokinase plasminogen activator receptor on monocytes from patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: effect of glatiramer acetate (copolymer 1). Clin Diagn Lab Immunol 8:1196-1203, 2011.
- Dore-Duffy P, Owen C, Balabanov R, Murphy S, Beaumont T, and Rafols JA: Pericyte migration from the vascular wall in response to traumatic brain injury. Microvasc Res 60:55-69, 2000.
- Balabanov R, Beaumont T, and Dore-Duffy P: Role of central nervous system microvascular pericytes in activation of antigen-primed splenic T-lymphocytes. J Neurosci Re 55:578-587, 1999.
- Dore-Duffy P, Balabanov R, Beaumont T, Hritz MA, Harik SI, and LaManna JC: Endothelial activation following prolonged hypobaric hypoxia. Microvasc Res 57:75-85, 1999.
Abstracts:
- Beaumont TL and Loeb JA: Persistent changes in PSD-95 expression, palmitoylation and synaptic targeting characterize human epileptic neocortex. 2007 Society for Neuroscience, San Diego, CA
- Beaumont TL, Yao B, Rakhade SN, Shah A, Loeb JA: Persistent regional induction of CREB target genes in human epileptic neocortex revealed by transcriptome analysis. Curing Epilepsy 2007, NIH/NINDS, Bethesda, MD
- Beaumont TL, Rakhade SN, Ahned S, Yao B, Shah A, Loeb JA: Genome-wide transcriptional analysis of human epileptic neocortex implicates modulators of synaptic potentiation. Gordon Research Conference, 2006, Colby College, Waterville, ME
- Beaumont TL, Yao B, Ahmed S, Suwa K, Asano E, Shah A, Loeb JA: Activity-dependent gene expression profiles in human neocortical epilepsy implicate modulaors of glutamatergic synaptic strenght, 2005. Society for Neuroscience, Washington, DC
- Beaumont, T and Sloan, AE: Molecular Classification of Malignant Gliomas: Distinct Subtypes Identified by Gene Expression Profiling, 2003. Wayne State University, School of Medicine Research Symposium
- McCollom, B., Beaumont, T., Sloan, AE., Kupsky, W. Gliosarcoma with Multiple Extracranial Metastases, 2002. American Association of Neurological Surgeons
- Dore-Duffy P., Beaumont, T. and Sloan, AE: Central Nervous System Microvascular Pericyte Production of VEGF in Human Glioblastoma. Ann Neurol 48(3):248, 2000
- Dore-Duffy P, Balabanov R, Beaumont T: Functional differentiation of central nervous system microvascular pericytes in response T1-weighted and T2-weighted cytokines. ANN NEUROL 44(3): T199, 1998
- Dore-Duffy, P., Beaumont, T. and Bullock, R. Increased Fibrinogenic Cytokines in Traumatic Brain Injury. Journal of Neurotrauma. 14(10):A39, 1997
Grants/Felloships/Awards:
NIH Ruth L.Kirschstein National Research Service Award
Sandberg Prize for Excellence in Biomedical Research, 2003
Outside Interests: Mountaineering and ice climbing, sailing, literature, film, cooking and wine
Favorite Aspects of WSU’s MD PhD Program: Super flexible, many MD PhD faculty with strength in clinical and basic neuroscience
Tom has also received an individual NIH training award (the F30 – Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award, funded through NIH/NINDS, for four years for his research project titled “Activity-Dependent Gene Expression in Epileptogenesis.” In this study, Tom will use subdural recording electrodes to map human neocortical epileptic foci in patients with medically intractable seizures, and measure differential gene espression at these foci and at regions of early seizure spread using oligonucleotide microarrays. The expression level of key plasticity-associated genes will be confirmed and their cellular localization determined. Understanding activity-dependent gene expression and the cell types involved will provide new insights into human epileptogenesis that will aid in clinical management and offer new therapeutic avenues for patients with epilepsy.
Bissig, David

Education: BS University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, Psychology & Philosophy
Graduate Program Affiliation: Anatomy & Cell Biology
Research Interests:Artificial Vision
Clinical Interests: Neurology
Advisor: Bruce Berkowitz, PhD, Anatomy & Cell Biology
Publications:
- Berkowitz BA, Bissig D, Dutczak O, Corbett S, North R, Roberts R. MRI biomarkers for evaluation of treatment efficacy in preclinical diabetic retinopathy. Expert Opin Med Diagn. 2013 Jul;7(4):393-403. Epub 2013 Jun 21.
- Bissig D, Goebel D, Berkowitz BA. Diminished Vision in Healthy Aging is Associated with Increased Retinal L-type Voltage Gated Calcium Channel Ion Influx. PLoS One. 2013;8(2):e56340. Epub 2013 Feb 14.
- Bissig D, Berkowitz BA. Light-dependent changes in outer retinal water diffusion in rats in vivo. Mol Vis. 2012;18:2561-xxx. Epub 2012 Oct 19.
- Chui TY, Bissig D, Berkowitz BA, Akula JD. Refractive Development in the “ROP Rat”. J Ophthalmol. 2012;2012:956705. Epub 2012 Feb 8.
- Li X, McClellan ME, Tanito M, Garteiser P, Towner R, Bissig D, Berkowitz BA, Fliesler SJ, Woodruff ML, Fain GL, Birch DG, Khan MS, Ash JD, Elliott MH. Loss of caveolin-1 impairs retinal function due to disturbance of subretinal microenvironment. J Biol Chem. 2012 May 11;287(20):16424-34. Epub 2012 Mar 26.
- Braun RD, Bissig D, North R, Vistisen KS, Berkowitz BA. Human tumor cell proliferation evaluated using manganese-enhance MRI. PLoS One. 2012;7(2):e30572. Epub 2012 Feb 17.
- Berkowitz BA, Bissig D, Patel P, Bhatia A, Roberts R. Acute systemic 11-cis-retinal intervention improves abnormal outer retinal ion channel closure in diabetic mice. Mol Vis. 2012;18:372-6. Epub 2012 Feb 7.
- Berkowitz BA, Bissig D, Ye Y, Valsadia P, Kern TS, Roberts R. Evidence for diffuse central retinal edema in vivo in diabetic male Sprague Dawley rats. PLoS One. 2012;7(1):e29619. Epub 2012 Jan 11.
- Bissig D, Berkowitz B.A. Same-session functional assessment of rat retina and brain with manganese-enhanced MRI. NeuroImage. 2011; 58(3):749-60.
- Berkowitz B.A., Bissig D., Bergman D., Bercea E., Kastur V.K., Roberts R. Intraretinal calcium channels and retinal morbidity in experimental retinopathy of prematurity. Mol Vis. 2011; 17:2516-26. PMCID: PMC3185031.
- Holt A.G., Bissig D., Mirza N., Rajah G., Berkowitz B.A. Evidence of key tinnitus-related brain regions documented by a unique combination of manganese-enhanced MRI and acoustic startle reflex testing. PLoS One. 2010; 5(12):e14260. PMIC: PMC3002264.
- Berkowitz B.A., Roberts R., Bissig D. Light-dependant intraretinal ion regulation by melanopsin in young awake and free moving mice evaluated with manganese-enhanced MRI. Mol Vis. 2010; 16:1776-80. PMCID: PMC2929942.
- Ivanova E., Roberts R., Bissig D., Pan Z-H., Berkowitz B.A. Retinal channelrhodopsin-2-mediated activity in vivo evaluated with manganese-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging.
- Berkowitz B.A., Gradianu M., Bissig D., Kern T.S., Roberts R., 2009. Retinal ion regulation in a mouse model of diabetic retinopathy: Natural history and the effect of Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase overexpression. Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science, 50(5), 2351-2358. PMCID: PMC2688071
- Berkowitz B.A., Roberts R., Oleske D.A., Chang M., Schafer S., Bissig D., Gradianu M., 2009. Quantitative mapping of ion channel regulation by visual cycle activity in rodent photoreceptors in vivo, Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science, 50(4), 1880-1885. PMCID: PMC2696261
- Bissig D., Berkowitz B.A., 2009. Manganese-enhanced MRI of layer-specific activity in the visual cortex from awake and free-moving rats. NeuroImage, 44(3), 627-637. PMCID: PMC2642584
- Berkowitz B.A., Roberts R., Luan H., Bissig D., Bui B.V., Gradianu M., Vingrys A.J., 2007. Manganese-enhanced MRI studies of alterations of intraretinal ion demand in models of ocular injury, Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science 48(8): 3796-3804. PMCID: PMC2041849
- Bissig D., Lustig C. 2007. Who benefits from memory training? Psychological Science, 18(8): 720-726
Abstracts:
- Bissig, D., Berkowitz,B., (October, 2009). Manganese-enhanced MRI of retinal and central visual system activity in the rat. Abstract for poster presentation, Society for Neuroscience Annual Meeting, Chicago, Il.
- Berkowitz, B.A., Roberts,R., Luan,H., Bissig,D., Bui,B.V., Vingrys,A.J., Gradianu,M., (May 2007). Manganese-enhanced MRI studies of intraretinal dyshomeostasis. Abstract for poster presentation, The Association for Research in Vision and Opthalmology Annual Meeting, Fort Lauderdale, FL.
- Askren, M., Bissig,D., Lustig,C., (May, 2007). Do breakdowns in interhemispheric processing contribute to age differences in emotion recognition? Abstract for poster presentation, Cognitive Neuroscience Society Annual Meeting, New York, NY.
- Bissig, D., Walsh,M., Reinink,A., Lustig,C., (April 2006). Who benefits from memory training? Impact of individual differences in strategy use. Abstract for poster presentation, Cognitive Aging Conference, Atlanta, GA.
Awards/Honors:
- Reviewer for Behavioral Brain Research, 2010
- NeuroImage Editor’s Choice Award (for Bissig & Berkowitz, NeuroImage, 44(3), 627-637), 2009
- Board of Governors Medical Scholarship, Wayne State University, 2006-2008
Professional Memberships/Societies:
Membership in the American Medical Association, 2006-present
Membership in the Michigan Chapter of the Society for Neuroscience, 2009
Membership in the Society for Neuroscience, 2009
Fellowships:
F30 Grant
National Institute of Aging
Score: 10
Submission December 2009
Outside Interests: Reading, Painting
Favorite Aspects of MD PhD Program:
Brown, Erik
Education: BS Electrical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
Graduate Program Affiliation: Translational Neuroscience Program
Research Interests: EEG/ECoG, Epilepsy, Functional Brain Mapping, Biomedical Engineering, Neuroimaging
Clinical Interests: Neurology, Neurosurgery, Epilepsy, Helping the Uninsured
Advisor: Eishi Asano, MD, PhD – Pediatrics, Neurology, Electrophysiology (Children’s Hospital of Michigan)
Publications:
- Evaluating Signal-Correlated Noise as a Control Task with Language-Related Gamma Activity on Electrocorticography. Clinical Neurophysiology; (in press).
- Brown EC, Jeong JW, Muzik O, Rothermel R, Matsuzaki N, Juhasz C, Sood S, Asano E. Evaluating the Arcuate Fasciculus with Combined Diffusion-Weighted MRI Tractography and Electrocorticography. Hum Brain Mapp. 2013 Aug 24.
- Brown EC, Matsuzaki N, Asano E. The Transient Effect of Interictal Spikes from a Fontal Focus on Language-Related Gamma Activity. J Epilepsy and Behavior. 2012 Aug; 24(4):497-502.
- Brown EC, Muzik O, Rothermel R, Matsuzaki N, Asano E. Evaluating Reverse Speech as a Control Task with Language-Related Gamma Activity on Electrocorticography. Neuroimage. 2012 May 1;60(4):2335-45.
- Brown EC, Rothermel R, Nishida M, Juhasz C, Muzik O, Hoechstetter K, Sood S, Chugani HT, Asano E. In vivo animation of auditory-language-induced gamma-oscillations in children with intractable focal epilepsy. NeuroImage, 2008; 41:1120-31. (Animation movie can be found here: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2424169/bin/NIHMS47354-supplement-Video_S1.mpg).
Oral Presentations:
- Mathur A, Yin J, Brown EC, Grimm M, Leff T, Sokol R. Research Training: What You Get May Not Necessarily Be What You Need or Want. Panel discussion as part of the Professional and Academic Development Seminar, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, December 2009.
- Brown EC, Asano E, Rothermel R, Nishida M, Juhasz C, Muzik O, Sood S, Chugani HT. In-vivo animation of auditory-language-evoked gamma-oscillations in children with intractable focal epilepsy. Oral presentation at Wayne State University School of Medicine’s Medical Student Research Symposium, Detroit, MI, January 2008.
Poster Presentations:
- Brown EC, Muzik O, Rothermel R, Nagasawa T, Juhasz C, Sood S, Asano E. A probability map of naming based upon event-related electrocorticography. For the poster session hosted by the American Society for Clinical Investigation and the Association of American Physicians Joint Meeting at the Sixth Annual Meeting of the American Physician Scientists Association, Chicago, IL, April 2010.
- Brown EC, Asano E. Brain waves and their utility in pre-surgical pediatric brain mapping. Wayne State University’s Graduate Exhibition, Detroit, MI, March 2010.
- Brown EC, Rothermel R, Nagasawa T, Juhasz C, Sood S, Asano E. In vivo cortical mapping of the right hemisphere via auditory-language-related gamma-oscillations in children with intractable focal epilepsy. Wayne State University School of Medicine’s Graduate Student Research Day, Detroit, MI, September 2009.
- Brown EC, Loeb JA, Barkmeier D, Balan K, Beaumont T, Rakhade S. Identification of new molecular targets for human epilepsy. National MD PhD Conference, Keystone, CO, July 2009.
- Brown EC, Loeb JA, Barkmeier D, Balan K, Beaumont T, Rakhade S. Identification of new molecular targets for human epilepsy. Wayne State University School of Medicine’s Medical Student Research Symposium, Detroit, MI, January 2009.
- Brown EC, Loeb JA, Barkmeier D, Balan K, Beaumont T, Rakhade S. Identification of new molecular targets for human epilepsy. In the Neurobiology/Neuroscience category of the AMA Medical Student Section and AMA Resident and Fellow Section Joint Research Poster Symposium, Orlando, FL, October 2008.
- Brown EC, Loeb JA, Barkmeier D, Balan K, Beaumont T, Rakhade S. Identification of new molecular targets for human epilepsy. Wayne State University School of Medicine’s MD PhD Student Research Day, Detroit, MI, October 2008.
- Brown EC, Asano E, Rothermel R, Nishida M, Juhasz C, Muzik O, Sood S, Chugani HT. In-vivo animation of auditory-language-evoked gamma-oscillations in children with intractable focal epilepsy. The 61st Annual Meeting of the American Epilepsy Society, Philadelphia, PA, November/December 2007.
- Brown EC, Asano E, Rothermel R, Nishida M, Juhasz C, Muzik O, Sood S, Chugani HT. In-vivo animation of auditory-language-evoked gamma-oscillations in children with intractable focal epilepsy. Wayne State University School of Medicine’s MD PhD Student Research Day, Detroit, MI, November 2007.
Awards:
- 2012 Asselin Award, Department of Psychiatry & Behavorial Neurosciences, for First-Authored Paper.
- Third Place, Graduate Exhibition. Wayne State University, 2011.
- First Place for Oral Presentation, Graduate Student Research Day. Wayne State University School of Medicine, 2010.
- Excellence in Research Award. State-wide graduate student research publication competition organized by the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, 2009.
- Outstanding Graduate/Professional Student Award. Honored at the Campus Life Leadership Awards Ceremony, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 2009.
- Neurobiology/Neuroscience Category First Place Winner. AMA Medical Student Section and AMA Resident and Fellow Section Joint Research Poster Symposium, Orlando, FL, October 2008.
- First Place for MD PhD Competition. Wayne State University School of Medicine’s Medical Student Research Symposium, Detroit, MI, January 2008.
- Lois and Herschel Sandberg Award for Biomedical Research. Wayne State University School of Medicine’s Medical Student Research Symposium, Detroit, MI, January 2008.
Outside Interests: Ice Hockey, Skateboarding, Snowboarding, Surfing, Guitar, Singing, Marathons, Triathlons, Spanish, and Traveling.
Favorite Aspects of MD PhD Program:
Dilworth, Joshua

Education: BS Microbiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
Graduate Program Affiliation: Pharmacology
Research Interests: Neurofibromatosis Type1, Schwann cell biology, Cell signaling pathways in cancer development and as pharmacologic targets
Clinical Interests: Oncology, Pathology
Advisor:Raymond R. Mattingly, Ph.D.
Publications/Presentations:
- “Primary leptomeningeal melanoma in a twenty-month-old: a case study and literature review,” Dilworth JT, Kupsky WJ, Becker CJ, Rabah RM, Poulik JM; J of Pediatric and Develop Pathology. 2008. Manuscript in preparation
- “Targeting ErbB receptor signaling in NF1 malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor lines,” Dilworth JT, Hancock C, Kraniak JA, Mathieu P, Reiners JJ, Tainsky MA, Mattingly RR. J of Molec Cancer Therap. 2008. Manuscript submitted
- “Molecular targets for emerging anti-tumor therapies for neurofibromatosis type 1,” Dilworth JT, Kraniak JM, Wojtkowiak JW, Gibbs RA, Borch RF, Tainsky MA, Reiners JJ Jr, Mattingly RR. Biochem Pharmacol. 2006 Nov 30;72(11):1485-92. Epub 2006 Apr 28. Review. PMID: 16797490
- “The mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase kinase inhibitor PD184352 (CI-1040) selectively induces apoptosis in malignant schwannoma cell lines,” Mattingly RR, Kraniak JM,
Dilworth JT, Mathieu P, Bealmear B, Nowak JE, Benjamins JA, Tainsky MA, Reiners JJ. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2006 Jan;316 (1):456-65.PMID: 16239399
Abstracts:
- “Adaptive image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT) eliminates the risk of geometric miss due to rectal distention in prostate cancer treatment planning: biochemical and clinical evidence of efficacy,” McGrath S, Kestin L, Dilworth JT, Liang J, Krauss D, Yan D, Vicini F, Martinez A; American Society of Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology (‘08)
- “Superior mesenteric artery syndrome: clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment Strategies,” Shah R, Dilworth JT, Shanti C; Frederick A. Coller Surgical Society Meeting (Sep ’07)
- “Deregulated N-Ras increases EGFR expression and activity in neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) MPNST cells,” Dilworth JT, Kraniak JM, Reiners JJ, Tainsky MA, Mattingly RR; Gordon Research Conference: Mechanisms of Cell Signaling, Hong Kong, China (Jun ’05)
- “The EGFR:Ras axis in NF1 Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumor Lines,” Dilworth JT, Kraniak JM, Tainsky MA, Reiners JJ, Mattingly RR; American Association for Cancer Research: Karmanos Cancer Institute, Detroit, MI (Jul ’05)
- “Deregulated N-Ras increases EGFR expression and activity in neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) MPNST cells,” Dilworth JT, Kraniak JM, Reiners JJ, Tainsky MA, Mattingly RR; Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology Conference, San Diego, CA (Apr ’05)
- “The mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase kinase inhibitor PD184352 (CI-1040) selectively induces apoptosis in malignant schwannoma cell lines,” Mattingly RR, Kraniak JM, Dilworth JT, Mathieu P, Bealmear B, Nowak JE, Benjamins JA, Tainsky MA, Reiners JJ; 12th International Conference on Second Messengers and Phosphoproteins, Montreal, QC, Canada (Aug ’04)
Awards:
- Frank B. Walker, M.D. Endowed Memorial Prize-recognizing academic achievement and leadership in the study of scientific research (Mar ’08)
- Distinction in Biomedical Research award 2008
- Clinical Honors: Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pediatrics, Family Medicine, Emergency Medicine, Pediatric Surgery, Internal Medicine, Radiation Oncology (’06-’07)
- Cumulative Graduate School GPA: 4.0/4.0 (’00-’05)
- Three Travel Awards, Department of Pharmacology (Jun and Apr ’05, Aug ‘04)
- Exceptional Academic and Research Accomplishment Award (Nov ’04)
- 1st Place, oral presentation: Graduate Student Research Day (Sep ’04)
- Competitive Award for Academic Excellence (Oct ’03)
- Featured interview in the W.S.U. publication “Scribe,” highlighting community out-reach program (D.O.C.S.)
Grants/Fellowships: n/a
Outside Interests: Music, Sign Language, Volleyball, Teaching
Favorite aspects of MD PhD program: Discovery, autonomy, variety
John, Jessin

Education: BS Electrical/Computer Engineering, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
Graduate Program Affiliation: Electrical and Computer Engineering
Research Interests: MEMS and NanBioScience
Clinical Interests: Neuroscience/Neurosurgery
Advisor: Yong Xu, Ph.D., Electrical and Computer Engineering
Outside Interests: Music Minister at International Assembly of God (Warren, MI), Bass Guitarist (Michigan Beats), Tae Kwon Do
Favorite Aspects of MD PhD Program:
Lawrenson, Lesley

Education: University of California San Diego BS Biochemistry Molecular Cell Biology 2001, University of California San Diegor MS Biology “Aging Attenuates Vasodilatory Response to Isolated Small Muscle Mass Exercise” 2003
Graduate Program Affiliation: Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics
Research Interests: Undecided
Clinical Interests: Undecided
Advisor: Henry Heng, PhD, Molecular Medicine and Genetics
Publications/Presentations:
- Ye CJ, Stevens JB, Liu G, Bremer SW, Jaiswal AS, Ye KJ, Lin MF, Lawrenson L, Lancaster WD, Kurkinen M, Liao JD, Gairola CG, Shekhar MP, Narayan S, Miller FR, Heng HH. Genome based cell population heterogeneity promotes tumorigenicity: the evolutionary mechanism of cancer. J Cell Physiol 219(2):288-300, 2009.
- Chugani HT, Juhasz C, Chugani DC, Lawrenson L, Muzik O, Chakroborty PK, Sood S. Increased striatal serotonin synthesis following cortical resection in children with intractable epilepsy. Epilepsy Res. 78(2-3):124-30. 2008.
- Heng HH, Stevens JB, Lawrenson L, Liu G, Ye KJ, Bremer SW, Ye CJ. Cell Oncol. 2008;30(6):513-14.
- Richardson RS, Donato AJ, Uberoi A, Wray DW, Lawrenson L, Nishiyama S, Bailey DM. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 292(3):H1516-22. 2006.
- Donato AJ, Uberoi A, Wray DW, Nishiyama S, Lawrenson L, and Richardson RS. Differential effects of aging on limb blood flow in humans. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 290: H272-278, 2006.
- Wray DW, Uberoi A, Lawrenson L, and Richardson RS. Evidence of preserved endothelial function and vascular plasticity with age. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 290: H1271-1277, 2006.
- Wray DW, Uberoi A, Lawrenson L, and Richardson RS. vHeterogeneous limb vascular responsiveness to shear stimuli during dynamic exercise in humans. J App Physiol 99: 81-86, 2005.
- Bailey DM, Young IS, McEneny J, Lawrenson L, Kim J, barden J, and Richardson RS. Regulation of free radical outflow from an isolated muscle bed in exercising humans. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 287: H1689-1699, 2004.
- Bailey DM, Davies B, Lawrenson L, Davison GW, Isaacson R, and Richardson RS. EPR spectroscopic detection of free radical outflow from an isolated muscle bed in excercising humans. J Appl Physiol 94: 1714-1718, 2003.
- Barden J, Poole JG, Lawrenson L, Brown CF, Seng S, and Richardson RS. Achievement of Metabolic Limitation to Exercise in Trained Skeletal Muscle. The FASEB Journal 17: 955, 2003.
- Barden J, Poole JG, Lawrenson L, Brown CF, Seng S, and Richardson RS. Is Vasodilation Maximized During Maximal Small Muscle Mass Exercise?Med Sci Sports Exerc 35: 109, 2003.
- Lawrenson L, Hoff J, and Richardson RS. Aging Attenuates Vascular and Metabolic Plasticity but Does Not Limit Improvement in Muscle Vo2max. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol, 2003.
- Lawrenson L, Poole JG, Kim J, Barden J, and Richardson RS. Central vs. Peripheral Limitations to Muscle VO2max in Aging Subjects. The FASEB Journal 17: 1279, 2003.
- Lawrenson L, Poole JG, Kim J, Barden J, and Richardson RS. The Role of Age and Activity in Vascular Responsiveness. Med Sci Sports Exerc 35: 397, 2003.
- Lawrenson L, Poole JG, Kim J, Brown CF, Patel PM, and Richardson RS. Vascular and Metabolic Response to Isolated Small Muscle Mass Exercise: The Effect of Age. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol, 2003.
- Lawrenson L, Poole JG, Brown CF, Barden J, and Richarson RS. Vascular Endothelial Reactivity Mediated by {HbO2}; The Effects of Age. The FASEB Journal 16: 766, 2002.
- Poole JG, L. Lawrenson, J. Kim. C. Brown, J. Gonzalez-Alonzo and R. S. Richardson. Vascular Endothelial Reactivity Mediated by {HbO2}. Med, Sci, Sports, Exer 34: S32, ABSTRACT, 2002.
- Poole JG, Lawrenson L, Brown CF, Barden J, and Richardson RS. Leg Blood Flow During Submaximal and Maximal Large Muscle Mass Exercise in Humans. The FASEB Journal 16: 764, 2002.
- Poole JG, Lawrenson L, Kim J, Brown C, and Richardson RS.
- Poole JG, Lawrenson L, Kim J, Brown C, and Richardson RS. Vascular and metabolic response to cycle exercise in sedentary humans: effect of age. Am J Physiol 284: H1251-1259, 2003.
- Wagner PD, Lawrenson L, Poole JG, Gavin TP, Brown CF, and Richardson RS. Effects of Small Muscle Mass Training on Muscle Function in COPD. American Journal of Respiratory Critical Care Medicine 167: 962,. 2003.
Grants/Fellowships:
National Graduate Student Research Award, American College of Sports Medicine
Department of Defense Predoctoral Fellowship
Outside Interests: Triathlon, hiking, camping
Lillvis, John

Education: BA Swarthmore College, Chemistry/Religion
Graduate Program Affiliation: Center for Molecular Medicine & Genetics
Research Interests: Genetics, Vascular Biology, Diseases of Aging
Clinical Interests:Undecided
Advisor: Helena Kuivaniemi/Wayne Lancaster
Publications/Presentations:
- Lillvis JH, Erdman R, Schworer CM, Golden A, Derr K, Gatalica Z, Cox LA, Shen J, VanderHeide RS, Lenk GM, Hlavaty L, Li L, ELmore JR, Franklin DP, Gray JL, Garvin RP, Carey DJ, Lancaster WD, Tromp G, Kuivaniemi H. Regional expression of HOXA4 along the aorta and its potential role in human abdominal aortic aneurysms. BMC Physiol. 2011 May; 11:9.
- Lillvis JH, Kyo Y, Tromp G, Lenk GM, Li M, Lu Q, Igo RP Jr, Sakalihasan N, Ferrell RE, Schworer CM, Gatalica Z, Land S, Kuivaniemi H. BMC Med Genet. 2011 Jan; 12:14.
- Lillvis JH, Lanfear DE. Progress toward genetic tailoring of heart failure therapy. Curr Opin Mol Ther. 2010 June; 12(3):294-304.
- Boddy AM, Lenk GM, Lillvis JH, Nischan J, Kyo Y, Kuivaniemi H. Basic research studies to understand aneurysm disease. Drug New Perspect. 2008 Apr; 21(3)142-8.
- Szabo P, Li F, Matthew J, Lillvis J, Weksler ME. Cell Immunol. 2004 Sep-Oct; 231(1-2):158-67.
- Boddy AM, Lenk GM, Lillvis JH, Nischan J, Kyo Y, Kuivaniemi H. Basic research studies to understand aneurysm disease. Drug News and Perspectives (in press).
- Lillvis JH, Lenk GM, Kuivaniemi H, Genetics of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms. In: Aortic Aneurysms: Pathogenesis and Treatment. Humana Press Inc., Totowa, NJ. G.
- Kuivaniemi H, Boddy AM, Lillvis JH, Nischan J, Lenk GM, Tromp G. Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms are deep, deadly and genetic. In: Aortic Aneurysms, New insights into an old problem. Leige University Press, Leige, Belgium. N Sakalihasan, H Kuivaniemi, and JB Michel, eds. (in press).
- Nischan J, Lenk JM, Boddy AM, Lillvis JH, Tromp G, Kuivaniemi H. Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms-a Complex Genetic Predisposition to Disease, Nova Science Publishers, Inc., Hauppauge, NY (in press).
Fellowships:
NIH F30 Immunity and the Pathogenesis of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms
NIH Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award
Outside Interests: Running, cooking, listening to music
Favorite Aspects of the program: Combination of strong research and great clinical training
Mischel, Nicholas
Education: BS Wayne State University, Biological Sciences
Graduate Program Affiliation: Physiology
Research Interests: Neural control of the circulation, Cardiovascular physiology, Neurophysiology, Cognitive neuroscience, High-tech equipment
Clinical Interests: Cardiology, Internal Medicine, Neurology, Neurosurgery
Advisor: Patrick Mueller, Ph.D. Asst. Professor of Physiology
Abstracts:
- Mueller PJ and Mischel NA. Selective enhancement of glutamate-mediated pressor responses after GABAA receptor blockade in the RVLM of sedentary versus spontaneous wheel running rats. Front. Physio.3:447, 2012 November 26.
- Mischel NA, Mueller PJ. (In)activity dependent alterations in resting and reflex control of splanchnic sympathetic merve activity. J Appl Physiol. 2011 Oct 6. [Epub ahead of print].
- Mueller PJ, Mischel NA, Scislo TJ. Differential activation of adrenal, renal, and lumbar sympathetic nerves following stimulation of the rostral ventrolateral medulla of the rat. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol. 2011 May; 300(5):R1230-40.
- Nicholas A Mischel and Lori A. Pile, PhD. Physiological Aberration In SIN3-deficient Cells Of D. Melanogaster. National Conference for Undergraduate Research. Abstract and Poster, 2007
- Nicholas A. Mischel, Ida J. Lewellyn-Smith, Jose A. Rafols, Patrick J. Mueller. Physical inactivity dependent neuroplasticity in the rat RVLM: A link to neurogenic hypertension? Wayne State University School of Medicine Graduate Student Research Day. Abstract and Poster, 2009
- Nicholas Mischel, Avril G. Holt, Patrick J. Mueller. Laser capture microdissection of spinally-projecting RVLM neurons: Analysis of NMDA receptor subunit gene expression. Experimental Biology. Abstract and Poster, 2010
- NA Mischel, TJ Scislo, and PJ Mueller. Stimulation of rostral ventrolateral medulla produces differential activation of sympathetic nerves. FASEB Summer Conference. Abstract and Poster, 2010
- NA Mischel, TJ Scislo, and PJ Mueller. Stimulation of rostral ventrolateral medulla produces differential activation of sympathetic nerves. Wayne State University/University of Michigan Physiology Symposium. Abstract and Poster, 2010
- NA Mischel, TJ Scislo, PJ Mueller. Stimulation of rostral ventrolateral medulla produces differential activation of sympathetic nerves. Wayne State University School of Medicine Graduate Student Research Day. Abstract and Poster, 2010
Awards & Honors:
- 2007 Phi Beta Kappa National Honor Society
- 2007 Magna Cum Laude
- 2009-2010 American Heart Association Predoctoral Fellowship, Project title: “NMDA Receptor Neuroplasticity in the RVLM Following Imposition of Sedentary Conditions”
- 2010-Present NIH F30 Enhanced Sympathoexcitation and Inactivity: Role of NMDA Neuroplasticity in RVLM
- 2010 Graduate Professional Scholarship winner
- 2010 Best Poster Award-Wayne State University/University of Michigan Physiology Symposium
- 2010 Invited Speaker-Wayne State University/University of Michigan Physiology Symposium
Fellowships:
2010-Present NIH F30 Enhanced Sympathoexcitation and Inactivity: Role of NMDA Neuroplasticity in RVLM
2009-American Heart Association Predoctoral Fellowship
Outside Interests: Singing with the Ultrasounds and UMS Choral Union, playing guitar, tennis, Michigan State Spartans Basketball, eating out in Detroit with my girlfriend, visiting family (Especially my little niece Lillian Rose)
Favorite Aspects of MD PhD Program:
Pankonin, Mark

Education: Undergraduate degree in Physiology from University of Arizona
Graduate Program Affiliation: Molecular Medicine and Genetics
Research Interests: Oligodendrocyte lineage development.
Clinical Interests: Neurology
Advisor: Jeffrey Loeb, M.D./Ph.D. Molecular Medicine & Genetics, Neurology
Publications/Presentations:
- Specific structural features of heparan sulfate proteoglycans potentiate neuregulin-1 signaling. Journal of Biological Chemistry (Feb 05)
Fellowships: Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award
Outside Interests: Making music, film, beach volleyball
Favorite Aspects of MD PhD Program: Flexibility, autonomy
Awards:
- The Frank B. Walker, M.D. Endowed Memorial Prize 2008
- Dr. A. Ashley Rousuck Award in Internal Medicine 2008
Mark is also the holder of the prestigious individual training award from the NIH, the Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award for his research in oligodendrocyte lineage development.
Szymanski, Jeffrey

Education: BS Northern Michigan University, Biochemistry
Graduate Program Affiliation: Physiology
Research Interests: Undecided
Clinical Interests: Undecided
Advisor: Donald DeGracia, Ph.D., Physiology
Publications:
- Szymanski JJ, Jamison JT, Degracia DJ. Texture analysis of poly-adenylated mRNA staining following global brain ischemia and reperfusion. Comput Methods Programs Biomed. 2011 Apr. 6. (Epub ahead of print).
- DeGracia OJ, Jamison JT, Szymanski JJ, Lewis N1K. Translation arrest and ribonomics in post-ischemic brain: layers and layers of players. J Neurochem. 2008 Sep;106(6):2288-301. Epub 2008 Jul 8. Review.
Abstracts:
- Szymanski JJ. Binding properties of the Caenorhabditis elegans receptor associated protein. Wayne State University Department of Chemistry, October, 2004. Detroit, MI.
- Szymanski JJ. RAP binding to LRP in Caenorhabditis elegans. Argonne Symposium for Undergraduates in Science, Engineering and Mathematics, November, 2004. Argonne National Laboratory, Chigaco, IL.
- Jamison JT, Monique KL, Szymanski JJ, Kimball SR, OeGracia OJ. Redistribution Of mRNA After Global Brain Ischemia And Reperfusion. Translational Control, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York, 2008; 108.
Academic and Professional Honors:
2010-Graduate Student Research Day, 1st Place for Oral Presentation
2009 – Instructor, Year 1 Endocrinology Conference, Wayne State University School of Medicine
2008-present – Ad Hoc reviewer-Histology and Histopathology, Journal of Neuropharmacology
2008 – Invited Presenter, Wayne State Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics Summer Undergraduate Research Program
Grants/Fellowships: NIH Fellowships award 2009
AHA Predoctoral Fellowship, reviews pending.
Outside Interests: biking, skiing, backpacking
Favorite Aspects of MD PhD Program:
Valina-Toth, Anna Liza

Education: WSU, BS, Chemistry UCSB, MS, Chemistry – Thesis: Probing the Ser-Ser-Lys Catalytic Triad Mechanism of Peptide Amidase: Computational Studies of the Ground State, Transistion State, and Intermediate
Graduate Program Affiliation: Physiology/Internal Medicine
Research Interests: Undecided
Clinical Interests: Undecided
Advisor: John Flack, M.D., M.P.H., Chairman, Internal Medicine
Publications/Presentations:
- J.M. Flack, A.B. Valina-Toth and S. Nasser; Is Vitamin D an Overlooked Contributor to Excess Cardiovascular Disease in Blacks? Current Cardiovascular Risk Reports; 2008; Volume 2, Issue 4, submitted for publication.
- A.L.B. Valina, D. Mazumder-Shivakumar, T.C. Bruice; Probing the Ser-Ser-Lys Catalytic Triad Mechanism of Peptide Amidase: Computational Studies of the Ground State, Transistion State, and Intermediate, Biochemistry; 2004; 43(50); 15657-15672.
- A.B. Valina, R. Amunugama, H. Huang, and M.T. Rodgers; Collision-Induced Dissociation and Theoretical Studies of Na -Acetonitrile Complexes, The Journal of Physical Chemistry A; 2001; 105(49); 11057-11068.
- G. Vitale, A.B. Valina, H. Huang, R. Amunugama, and M.T. Rodgers; Solvation of Copper Ions by Acetonitrile. Structures and Sequential Binding Energies of Cu (CH3CN)x, x=1-5, from Collision-Induced Dissociation and Theoretical Studies, The Journal of Physical Chemistry A; 2001; 105(50); 11351-11364.
Book Chapters:
Flack, JM, Nasser SA, Britton M, Valina-Toth AB, Ahooja V, O’Connor SM: Hypertension in racial and thenic minorities. Chapter 57. In Lip GHY, Hall JE (eds): Comprehensive Hypertension. Philadelphia, Mosby (Elsevier), 2007, pp. 707-718.
Abstracts:
- A.B. Valina-Toth, Z. Lai, R. Quah, M. Britton, W. Yoo, and J.M. Flack. July 2008. The Effects of Vitamin D and Parathyroid Hormone on Blood Pressure and Cardiovascular Function in Normotensive African Americans. Abstract submitted for poster presentation. International Society on Hypertension in Blacks (ISHIB) Meeting 2008, New Orleans, LA.
- A.B. Valina-Toth, Z. Lai, R. Quah, W. Yoo, and J.M. Flack. 2008. Vitamin D and Parathyroid Hormone Effects on Body Composition. Abstract for poster presentation. The Endocrine’s Society 90th Annual Meeting 2008, San Francisco, CA.
- A.B. Valina-Toth, Z. Lai, R. Quah, M. Britton, W. Yoo, and J.M. Flack.2008. The Effects of Vitamin D and Parathyroid Hormone on Blood PRessure and Cardiovascular Function in Mormotensive Africanan Americans. Abstract for poster presentation. International Society on Hypertention in Blacks (ISHIB) Special Poster Reception at American College of Cardiology (ACC) – 57th Annual Scientific Session 2008, Chicago, IL.
- A.B. Valina-Toth, Z. Lai, R. Quah, M. Britton, W. Yoo, and J.M. Flack. March 2008. The Effects of Vitamin D and Parathyroid Hormone on Cardiovascular Function in Normotensive African Americans. Abstract for poster presentation. American Heart Association (AHA) Greater Midwest Affiliate – 2008 Celebration of Science, Ann Arbor, MI.
- A.B. Valina-Toth, Z. Lai, R. Quah, M. Britton, W. Yoo, and J.M. Flack. 2008. The Effects of Vitamin D and Parathyroid Hormone on Cardiovascular Function in Normotensive African Americans. Abstract for poster presentation. Centers for Population Health and Health Disparities Meeting (CPHHD), Bethesda, MD.
- A.B. Valina-Toth, Z. Lai, R. Quah, W. Yoo, and J.M. Flack 2007. Vitamin D and Parathyroid Hormone Effects on Salt Sensitivity and Vascular Function. Abstract for poster presentation. President’s Biennial Conference on Health Disparities, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI.
- A.B. Valina-Toth, Z. Lai, R. Quah, W. Yoo, and J.M. Flack. 2007. Vitamin D and Parathyroid Hormone Effects on Salt Sensitivity and Vascular Function. Abstract for poster presentation. MD PhD Research Day Poster Session, Wayne State University, School of Medicine, Detroit, MI.
- A.B. Valina-Toth, Z. Lai, W. Yoo, and J.M. Flack. 2007. Clinical Implications of Vitamin D, Calcium and Parathyroid Hormone Dysregulation. Abstract for oral presentation. Centers for Population Health and Health Disparities Meeting (CPHHD), Boston, MA.
- A.B. Valina and M.T. Rodgers. 2001. Absolute Solvation Enthalpies for the Na and Mg Acetonitrile Complexes from Collision-Induced Dissociation and Theoretical Studies. Abstract for poster presentation, Wayne State University Minority Programs Research Day, Detroit, MI.
- A.B. Valina and M.T. Rodgers. 2001. Absolute Solvation Enthalpies for the Na and Mg Acetonitrile Complexes from Collision-Induced Dissociation and Theoretical Studies. Abstract for poster presentation, Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students (ABRCMS), Orlando, FL.
- A.B. Valina, G. Vitale and M.T. Rodgers. 2001. Absolute Solvation Enthalpies of Metal Ions by Acetonitrile Determined by Guided Ion Beam Mass Spectrometry. Abstract for poster presentation, 49th American Society for Mass Spectrometry (ASMS) Conference on Mass Spectrometry and Allied Topics, Chicago, IL.
- M.T. Rodgers and A.B. Valina. 2001. Absolute Enthalpies of solvation of Na and Mg by Acetonitrile Determined by Guided Ion Beam Tandem Mass Spectrometry and Theoretical Calculations. Abstract for poster presentation, 221st American Chemical Society (ACS) National Meeting, San Diego, CA.
Fellowships/Awards:
- Student Health Professional Award from the International Society on Hypertension in Blacks 2008
- Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Awards (NRSA) Predoctoral Fellowship ( NIH, F31), Grant # 1F31ES015935-01A1, 2008-2011
- American Heart Association (AHA) Greater Midwest Affiliate Predoctoral Fellowship, Grant # 0715706Z, 2007-2009
- Endocrine Summer Research Felloswhip Award from The Endocrine Society, research support and travel grant, summer 2007
- Board of Governors Scholarship-Medicine, 2004-2006
- Wayne State University Board of Governors Medical School Merit Scholarship, 2004-2011
Outside Interests: Painting, sight seeing, traveling
Van Dyke, Alison

Education: Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Med Program, University of Pennsylvania, B.A. in Psychology with Concentration in Neural & Behavioral Sciences, Minor in Biology, Bryn Mawr College, Bryn Mawr, PA
Thesis: The Role of a-2 Noradrenergic Receptor in the Mediation of the Central CRH-NE-NPY Feeding Mechanism in Activity-Based Anorexia in Male Rats, Wendy Sternberg, Ph.D., Haverford College; Haverford, PA
Graduate Program Affiliation: Cancer Biology
Research Interests: Neuroimmunology
Clinical Interests: Neurology, focusing on the overlap between rheumatology & neurology
Advisor: Ann Schwartz, M.D., M.P.H.,Cancer Biology
Publications:
- Van Dyke AL, Cote ML, Wenzlaff AS, Abram J, Land S, Iyer P, Schwartz AG. Chromosome 5p Region SNPs Are Associated with Risk of NSCLC among Women. Journal of Cancer Epidemiology, Accepted.
- Van Dyke AL, Cote ML, Wenzlaff AS, Chen W, Abrams J, Land S, Giroux C, Schwartz AG. Cytokine and Cytokine Receptor SNPs Predict Risk of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer among Women. Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers Prevention 2009;18:1829-40.
- Van Dyke AL, Cote ML, Wenzlaff AS, Land S, Schwartz AG. Comparison of Allele Frequencies by Race & Implications for Future Studies. Cytokine 2009;46:236-44.
- Schwartz AG, Cote ML, Wenzlaff AS, Van Dyke AL, Chen W, Ruckdeschel JC, Gadgell S, Soubani A. Chronic Obstructive Lung Diseases and Risk of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer in Women. Journal of Thoracic Oncology 2009;4:291-9.
- Cote ML, Yoo W, Wenzlaff AS, Prysak GM, Santer S, Claeys GB, Van Dyke AL, Land SJ, Schwartz AG. Tobacco and Estrogen Metabolic Polymorphisms and Risk of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer in Women. Carcinogenesis 2009;30:626-35.
- Van Dyke, A.L., Cote, M.L., Prysak, G., Claeys, G.B., Wenzlaff, A.S., Murphy, V., Lonardo, F., Schwartz, A.G. COX-2/EGFR Expression and Survival among Women with Adenocarcinoma of the Lung. Carcinogenesis 2008;29:1781-7.
- Van Dyke, A.L., Cote, M.L., Prysak, G., Claeys, G.B., Wenzlaff, A.S., Schwartz, A.G. Regular Adult Aspirin Use Decreases the Risk of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer among Women. Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Prevention 2008;17(1):148-57.
- Von Feldt JM, Scalzi LV, Cucchiara AJ, Morthala S, Kealey C, Flagg SD, Genin A, Van Dyke AL, Nackos E, Chander A, Gehrie E, Cron RQ, and Whitehead AS. Homocysteine Levels and Disease Duration Independently Correlate with Coronary Artery Calcification in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients. Arthritis & Rheumatism 2006;54(7):2220-7.
- Kolasinski SL, Garfinkel M, Gilden-Tsai A, Matz M, Van Dyke A, Schumacher HR. Iyengar Yoga for Osteoarthritis of the Knees: A Pilot Study. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine 2005;11(4):689-93.
Book Chapters:
- Smith, A.M., Maragos, T., Van Dyke, A.L. Psychology of the Musician. In P. Amadio & R. Tubiana (Eds.), Medical Problems of Instrumentalist Musicians. London : Martin Dunitz Publishers, 1999.
Abstracts:
- Van Dyke AL, Cote ML, Wenzlaff AS, Prysak G, Claeys GB, Land S, Schwartz AG. Cytokine SNPs differentially predict risk of NSCLC in African American and Caucasian women. American Association Cancer Research Meeting, April 2008: 3123.
- Flagg SD , Fraterman S, Van Dyke AL , Whitehead AS , Von Feldt JM. Associations between MTHFR C677 Genotype, Homocysteine and Race as Risk Factors Contributing to Premature Cardiovascular Disease in SLE. American College of Rheumatology Meeting, 2003.
- Evangelisto A, Kolasinski SL, Garfinkel M, Schumacher HR, Van Dyke AL, Richards C, Hillstrom HH. Changes in Gait Parameters After Participation in a Yoga Program for Treatment of Symptoms of Osteoarthritis (OA) of the Knee: A Pilot Study. OsteoArthritis Research Society International (OARSI) Meeting, 2003.
- Flagg SD, Scalzi LV , Van Dyke AL , Von Feldt JM. Homocysteine and Number of Traditional Cardiovascular (CV) Risks Predict Coronary Artery Calcification (CAC) in SLE. American College of Rheumatology Meeting, 2003.
Invited Presentations:
- A three-stage analysis of associations between SNPs in multiple pathways and lung cancer among women. Days of Molecular Medicine 2009: Human Genetics, Stem Cells and Physiology: The Future of individualized medicine. Massachusetts General Hospital/Karolinska Institute, Boston, May 2009.
- Cytokine and cytokine receptor polymorphisms differentially predict survival by race among women with NSCLC. American Association Cancer Research Meeting, April 2009.
- Cytokine and cytokine receptor polymorphisms differentially predict survival by race among women with NSCLC. Cancer Epidemiology Working Group, University of Michigan, April 2009.
- Race, hormones and menopausal status as risk factors in women with NSCLC. North American Association of Central Cancer Registries. Detroit, Michigan. June 7, 2007.
Reviewer for Journals:
Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers Prevention
Cellular & Molecular Biology Letters
Experimental Lung Research
Memberships:
2007- Associate Member, American Association of Cancer Research
2007- Associate Member, Karmanos Cancer Institute
2006- Member, American Association for the Advancement of Science
Outside Interests: Hiking, watching independent films, listening to the blues, and vegan baking
Favorite Aspects of MD PhD Program: WSU SOM presents a uniques combination of intensive clinical training unparalleled elsewhere and competitive basic science strengths in my interests
Veenstra, Jesse

Education: BS Grand Valley State University, Biomedical Science
Graduate Program Affiliation: Oncology
Research Interests: Tumor immunology, autoimmunity, cancer biology
Clinical Interests: Dermatology
Advisor: Wei-Zen Wei, Ph.D., Oncology
Research Publications:
- Gibson HM, Veenstra JJ, Jones R, Vasihampayan U, Sauerbrey M, Bepler G, et al. Outbred domestic cats for evaluating novel cancer vaccines. Cancer Immunology Research – In Review
- Gibson H., Munns S., Freytag S., Barton K., Veenstra J., Bissonette J., Wei W. Immunotherapeutic intervention with oncolytic adenovirus in mouse mammary tumors. OncoImmunology – In Review
- Veenstra JJ, Gibson HM, Littrup PJ, Reyes JD, Cher MM, Takashima A, et al. Cryotherapy with concurrent CpG oligonucleotide treatment controls local tumor recurrence and modulates HER2/neu immunity. Cancer Research. 2014 Oct 1;74(19):5409-20.
- Veenstra J., Littrup P., Wei W. Amplification of tumor immunity with cryoablation. Cancer Research. 2011 April 15; 71(8 Supplement): 2693
Oral Presentations:
- Veenstra JJ, Gibson HM, Littrup PJ, and Wei WZ. Cryotherapy with concurrent CpG oligonucleotide treatment controls local tumor recurrence and modulates Her2/neu immunity. Wayne State University MD PhD Research Day, 2014. Detroit, MI.
- Veenstra JJ, Gibson HM, Littrup PJ, and Wei WZ. Cryotherapy with concurrent CpG oligonucleotide treatment controls local tumor recurrence and modulates Her2/neu immunity. Henry Ford Medical Education Research Forum, 2014. Detroit, MI.
- Veenstra J., Gibson H., Jones RF., Piechocki MP., Reyes J., Sauerbrey M., Wei W. Overcoming immune tolerance to self Her2 with heterologous Her2 DNA electrovaccination in domestic cats. Wayne State University MD PhD Retreat, 2013. Detroit, MI.
- Veenstra J., Gibson H., Littrup P., Wei W. Manipulation of Tumor Cryoablation Induced Responses. Wayne State Cancer Biology Symposium, 2013. Detroit, MI.
- Veenstra J., Gibson H., Littrup P., Wei W. Manipulation of Tumor Cryoablation Induced Responses. Translational Research Cancer Center Consortium, 2013. Seven Springs, PA.
- Veenstra J., Gibson H., Littrup P., Wei W. Modulation of Tumor Cryoablation Induced Th2 Response. Autumn Immunology Conference, 2012. Chicago, IL.
- Veenstra J., Gibson H., Littrup P., Wei W. Modulation of vaccine induced tumor immunity with cryoablation in wild type and immune tolerant hosts. Translational Research Cancer Center Consortium, 2012. Seven Springs, PA.
- Veenstra J., Littrup P., and Wei W. Boosting cancer vaccination with cryoablation: efficacy and challenges. Autumn Immunology Conference, 2011. Chicago, IL.
Poster Presentations:
- Veenstra J., Gibson H., Littrup P., Wei W. Modulation of vaccine induced tumor immunity with cryoablation in wild type and immune tolerant hosts. Karmanos Cancer Institute Wide Retreat, 2012. Detroit, MI.
- Veenstra J., Gibson H., Littrup P., Wei W. Modulation of vaccine induced tumor immunity with cryoablation in wild type and immune tolerant hosts. Wayne State Cancer Biology Symposium, 2012. Detroit, MI.
- Veenstra J., Littrup P., and Wei W. Impact of cryoablation on vaccine induced tumor immunity. Graduate Student Research Day, 2011. Detroit, MI.
- Veenstra J., Littrup P., and Wei W. Amplification of tumor immunity with cryoablation. National MD PhD Student Conference, 2011. Keystone, CO.
- Veenstra J., Littrup P., and Wei W. Amplification of tumor immunity with cryoablation. American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting, 2011. Orlando, FL.
- Veenstra J., Littrup P., and Wei W. Impact of cryoablation on vaccine induced tumor immunity. Wayne State Cancer Biology Symposium, 2011. Detroit, MI.
- Veenstra J., Littrup P., and Wei W. Impact of cryoablation on vaccine induced tumor immunity. Translational Research Cancer Center Consortium, 2011. Seven Springs, PA.
- Veenstra J., Littrup P., and Wei W. Amplification of tumor immunity with cryoablation. Wayne State University Graduate Exhibition, 2011. Detroit, MI.
- Veenstra J., Littrup P., and Wei W. Amplification of tumor immunity with cryoablation. Autumn Immunology Conference, 2010. Chicago, IL.
- Veenstra J., Piechocki M., Littrup P., and Wei W. Induction and Modulation of Tumor Immunity with Cryosurgery. Wayne State University Graduate Exhibition, 2010. Detroit, MI.
- Veenstra J., Piechocki M., Littrup P., and Wei W. Induction and Modulation of Tumor Immunity with Cryosurgery. The 13th Annual Meeting of the Translational Research Cancer Centers Consortium (TRC3): Immune Suppression and the Tumor Microenvironment, 2010. Columbus, OH.
- Veenstra J., LaManna J., Cleary K., Mehedi A., Wencel M., Katyshev V., Trotter R., and Dore-Duffy, P. The Effect of Aging on the CNS Vascular Adaptation to Normobaric Hypoxia. Wayne State University MD PhD Research Day, 2008. Detroit, MI.
- Veenstra J., Foot E., and Gow A. Embryogenic Expression of Claudin-11. Wayne State University MD PhD Research Day, 2007. Detroit, MI.
- Veenstra J., Smolinski S., and Burg M. Identification of development-specific mRNA splice variants from the rosA gene of Drosophila melanogaster. Midwest Drosophila Conference, 2006. Monticello, IL.
Academic and Professional Honors:
2007-14 Overall Honors Year I, II, and III
2009 Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society (Junior)
2007-15 Board of Governors Scholarship
2007-09 MD PhD Preclinical Academic Excellence Award
2014 1st place WSU MD PhD Research Day
2014 1st place research presentation Henry Ford Medical Education Research Forum
2012 1st place poster award Karmanos Cancer Institute Research Symposium
2011 2nd place Wayne State University Cancer Biology Symposium
2010 2nd place Wayne State University Graduate Exhibition
Memberships:
2013 Dermatology Interest Group
2009 Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society
2007 American Medical Association
2007 American Medical Student Association
2007 Michigan State Medical Society Member
Fellowships:
2011-16 “Treg-Th17 Axis Modulation and Induction of Tumor Immunity with Cryosurgery”
NIH/NIA F30 AG038138 fellowship (Veenstra J.) – MD PhD fellowship
2010-11 Training Program in the Biology of Cancer – Trainee
NIH/NCI T32-CA009531 (Matherly L.)
Favorite Aspects of MD PhD Program: The program has been very supportive and allowed me to pursue the research I’m passionate about.
Vostal, Jaroslav
Whittington, Paula
Education: B.S. in Biology at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County
Graduate Program Affiliation: Immunology & Microbiology Department
Research Interests: Immunotherapy and Autoimmune Diseases
Clinical Interests: Transplant Surgery, Oncology, Autoimmunity and Infectious Disease
Advisor: Wei-Zen Wei, Ph.D., Cancer Biology and Immunology/Microbiology Department
Grants/Fellowships: IMSD Support Grant
Outside Interests: Martial Arts
Wong, Marco
Wu, Chaowen

Year in Program: M4
Education: BS University of Michigan, Biopsychology and minor in Philosophy
Graduate Program Affiliation: Anatomy & Cell Biology
Clinical Interests: Surgery
Advisor: Zhuo-Hua Pan, Anatomy & Cell Biology
Academic and Professional Honors:
Graduate Student Research Day, 1st Place, Poster Presentation
National Eye Institute Travel Grant Award, 2010
The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology Member, 2010
Society for Neuroscience Member, 2007
Board of Governors Scholarship, 2005-present
University Honors, University of Michigan, 2001-2004
Golden Key Honors Society, 2001-2004
Biomedical Research Fellowship, 2002-2003
Angell B. Scholar Award, 2000
Publications & Abstracts:
- Wu C, Ivanova E, Cui J, Lu Q, Pan ZH. Action Potential Generation at an Axon Initial Segment-Like Process in the Axonless Retinal AII Amacrine Cell. Journal of Neuroscience. 2011;31(41):14654-14659.
- Siddiqui A, Cipriano J. Wu C, Tepper D. (Apr. 2012). Tissue Matrix Allograft Stretch in Breast Reconstruction. American Association of Plastic Surgeons, San Francisco, CA.
- Wu C, Ivanova E, Cui J, Pan ZH. (May 2011). Sodium channel clustering in an AII amacrine cell process revealed by targeting Chop2-GFP with the ankyrin binding domain motif. The Association for Research in Vision and Opthalmology Annual Meeting, Fort Lauderdale, FL.
- Wu C, Ivanova E, Cui J, Pan ZH. (Nov. 2010). Sodium channel clustering in an AII amacrine cell process revealed by targeting Chop2-GFP with the ankyrin binding domain motif. Great Lakes Vision Research Conference, Ann Arbor, MI.
- Wu C, Ivanova E, Cui J, Pan ZH. (Jul. 2010). Sodium channel clustering in an AII amacrine cell process revealed by targeting Chop2-GFP with the ankyrin binding domain motif. Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology, Saxtons River, VT.
- Wu C, Ivanova E, Zhang Y, Pan ZH. (May 2010). AAV-mediated subcellular targeting of Chop2-GFP in retinal ganglion cells. The Association for Research in Vision and Opthalmology Annual Meeting, Fort Lauderdale, FL.
- Wu C, Pan ZH. (Sep. 2009). Recreating retinal center-surround inhibition organization through the use of protein sorting motifs. Graduate Student Research Day, Detroit, MI.
- Bi A, Cui J, Ma YP, Ivanova E, Pu ML, Dizhoor AM, Wu C, and Pan ZH. (Sep. 2007). Ectopic Expression of Channelrhodopsin-2 Restores Visual Responses in Mice with Photoreceptor Degeneration. Graduate Student Research Day, Detroit, MI.
Outside Interests: Painting, horseback riding, good food
Favorite Aspects of MD PhD Program: