Breunig Lab
Neural Stem Cell Differentiation, Brain Repair, and Tumorigenesis
Neural stem cells generate the majority of the cells in the brain. The Breunig Laboratory studies the molecular mechanisms that mediate the normal differentiation of these cells to create the appropriate mature cell types in the brain, including neurons and glia (astrocytes and oligodendrocytes). Importantly, this information can be used to create therapies to direct differentiation and to promote brain repair. Conversely, we also use this knowledge to understand development of brain tumors when cells are mutated. For example, the exact origin of brain tumors is currently under debate, with most evidence pointing to either a neural stem cell origin or an oligodendrocyte progenitor origin.
The Breunig Laboratory is affiliated with the Regenerative Medicine Institute and Department of Neurosurgery.
The Breunig Laboratory is investigating the molecular mechanisms that govern the generation of the central nervous system from neural stem cells.
Meet Our Team
Learn more about the scientists, faculty members, investigators and other healthcare professionals of the Breunig Laboratory, whose dedicated efforts lead to groundbreaking discoveries.
Akhtar, AA, Gowing, G. Kobritz, N. Savinoff, S, Garcia, L, Saxon, D, Cho, N, Kim, G, Tom CM, Park H, Lawless G, Shelley BC, Mattis VB, Breunig JJ*, Svendsen CN*.
Stem Cell Reports. 2018 Jun 5;10(6):1696-1704.
Breunig JJ, Guillot-Sestier MV, Town T.
Front Aging Neurosci. 2013 Jul 11;5:26.
Breunig JJ, Haydar TF, Rakic P.
Neuron. 2011;70(4):614-625.
Contact the Breunig Lab
127 S. San Vicente Blvd.
Advanced Health Sciences Pavilion, Eighth Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90048