We study HMGB1-mediated DNA repair failure, cellular senescence, and neuroinflammation as the upstream molecular events that initiate Alzheimer's disease — with the goal of turning mechanistic insight into therapeutic action.
The BRAIN Lab investigates the molecular events that initiate neurodegeneration — before amyloid plaques form, before tau tangles appear, before the clinical symptoms of Alzheimer's disease emerge.
Our central discovery positions nuclear HMGB1 depletion as "Phase 0" of AD pathology — the initiating event that impairs non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) DNA repair, allows double-strand breaks (DSBs) to accumulate, activates the cGAS-STING innate immune pathway, and drives neurons and glia into a pro-inflammatory senescent state that fuels tau propagation and neurodegeneration.
We combine human transcriptomic meta-analysis (snRNA-seq of ~1.5M nuclei across 176 subjects), biochemical studies in human AD brain tissue, immunofluorescence and immunoelectron microscopy, co-immunoprecipitation, and translational therapeutic development — including intranasal delivery platforms and next-generation CAR-T cell approaches.
The lab is embedded within UTMB's Department of Neurobiology, with close collaborations with the Sarkar Lab (Huntington's disease, mitochondrial DNA repair) and other UTMB investigators in tauopathy and neurodegeneration.
Astrocytes (green, GFAP) with tau oligomer-induced HMGB1 translocation (magenta) — a hallmark of cellular senescence. Cell Reports, 2021.
We are actively recruiting motivated scientists at all levels. Contact Dr. Gaikwad to discuss opportunities.
The BRAIN Lab is actively growing. We are looking for enthusiastic scientists at all levels — from undergraduate researchers to experienced postdoctoral fellows — who are passionate about understanding and treating Alzheimer's disease and neurodegeneration.
Our lab offers rigorous scientific training in molecular biology, human brain tissue research, single-nucleus RNA sequencing, immunofluorescence microscopy, preclinical mouse modeling, and cutting-edge CAR-T cell therapy. We prioritize mentorship, scientific independence, and career development. Trainees are supported in grant writing, publications, and presentations at AAIC and SfN.
Galveston's history runs deep. Once known as the "Wall Street of the South," it was a booming port city, home to tycoons and traders. Today, it retains that same energy, blending Southern hospitality, artistic culture, and coastal adventure — often compared to Charleston and Savannah, but with its own distinct identity: welcoming, eclectic, and effortlessly cool.
Walking through the East End Historic District, you'll find stunning mansions preserved by the Galveston Historical Foundation — each telling a story of the island's storied past. On the West End, beachfront homes elevated on pilings offer unparalleled access to sand, surf, and sunsets.
The iconic Seawall Boulevard — spanning over 10 miles and rising 17 feet above sea level — is the heartbeat of the island, offering biking, running, and endless Gulf views alongside local restaurants, coffee shops, and the beloved Pleasure Pier.
Wide, uncrowded Gulf beaches with warm, gentle waves — year-round sunshine for swimming, surfing, and relaxing on the sand.
Galveston sits on the Central Flyway, making it a paradise for birdwatchers with hundreds of migratory species passing through the coastal marshlands.
The Gulf of Mexico offers unmatched opportunities for deep-sea fishing, sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding right from your doorstep.
The historic Strand District is packed with unique boutiques, cozy cafés, and lively entertainment. The Grand 1894 Opera House and the East End Theater Company bring world-class performances to the island, while art galleries showcase work inspired by Galveston's natural beauty.
Major annual events:
A serene coastal stretch known for uncrowded beaches, world-class birdwatching, and relaxed coastal living. Accessible via the free Galveston ferry — a scenic 20-minute crossing.
A quaint beachside city on the west end of Galveston Island, offering a laid-back atmosphere with close-knit community vibes and easy Gulf access, ~12 miles from downtown.
A picturesque canal village with waterfront living and a tropical flair, just 7 miles from Galveston. Direct Galveston Bay access makes it ideal for boating and fishing enthusiasts.
Galveston Island offers the perfect blend of close-knit community, a thriving medical and research hub, and a lifestyle that balances relaxation with opportunity. Houston's world-class museums, restaurants, and international airport are just 50 miles away.
Whether you're drawn to historic homes, coastal adventures, or a vibrant arts scene, Galveston is a one-of-a-kind place to call home — and an exceptional environment in which to build a research career.
