Richard Rubenstein, MS, PhD
Professor
Department of Neurology
The focus of our laboratory research for over three decades has been studying neurodegenerative disorders. Initially, the main focus of research was related to the prion diseases and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This has expanded to include the neuropathophysiology associated with mild to severe acute, subacute and chronic traumatic brain injury (TBI). The secondary long-term effects of TBI have been identified as risk factors for several diseases classified as tauopathies (which includes AD and chronic traumatic encephalopathy) and synucleinopathies (which includes Parkinson’s disease).
Our translational studies includes the utilization of in vitro and in vivo models as well as human patients. Our efforts have included biomarker discovery, validation and ultrasensitive diagnostic assay development for tauopathies and synucleinopathies. This involves the use of highly sensitive laser-based instrumentation technologies and the generation of site-directed immunological reagents for the purpose of CNS and biofluid-based detection of a wide range of biomarkers.
These specific biomarkers are selected for their relevance in disease diagnosis, prognosis and for targeting and/or monitoring therapeutic intervention. In addition, our studies have included efforts on enhancing neuroprotection and reducing neurodegeneration following TBI using both pharmacological and molecular approaches as a means of therapeutic intervention.
Education
- Undergraduate: BS - Brooklyn College
- Advanced Degree: MS - Brooklyn College
PhD – New York University - Post Doctorate: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Research Interests
- Neurodegenerative Diseases
- Traumatic Brain Injury
- Biomarkers