How can we repair damaged axons?

The principles and mechanisms by which injured sensory neurons re-activate a pro-regenerative program following axon injury are being revealed. We hope to learn how we could apply these mechanisms to central nervous system neurons, to overcome their poor regenerative capacity. A broader understanding of the multicellular mechanisms associated with sensory nerve repair may lead to strategies to improve recovery after nervous system injuries in the future.

Dr. Cavalli’s work aims to understand the complex cascade of cellular and molecular events responsible for repairing damaged axons — the branches of nerve cells that carry signals to other nerve cells — and to identify therapeutic targets to improve neuronal recovery following axon injury.