The role of the nervous system in regulating cellular stress responses

Figure from a scientific research study

Inside the lab of Veena Prahlad, PhD, MSc, we investigate how organisms adapt to suboptimal conditions. Currently we are investigating how the nervous system of a multicellular animal controls and responds to stress response programs activated by its cells and tissues.

We also explore how neuronal signals impact the age-related dysregulation of stress response pathways in neurodegenerative diseases and cancer.

Lab Research

Understanding how organisms respond to biotic and abiotic stressors

How do cells within a multicellular organism respond to damage to their macromolecules? Is each cell ‘allowed’ to respond as and when it needs to, prioritizing its survival and defense over community activities in the tissue? Or are there rules arising from intercellular interactions that determine the response? Can we leverage such mechanisms to alter the course of diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative disease?

Figure from a scientific research study

Research focus

Neural control of cell stress response pathways & transcription factors

Discoveries and emerging themes

Figure from a scientific research study

Project 1

Control of the heat shock transcription factor in cells of a metazoan

HSF1 research

Figure from a scientific research study

Project 2

The roles of IL-17/ILC-17.1 and CEP-1/p53 in development, aging, and dormancy

Stress signals research

We use the metazoan C. elegans, mouse models, and mammalian cells (primary cells and cell lines) as our experimental systems.

Join our team!

Interested in joining the Prahlad Lab? We are looking for interns, students, postdocs and research scientists at all levels. 

Currently recruiting: Postdoctoral Fellow

Contact Information

Connect with the Prahlad Lab

Email Dr. PrahladGitHub
Department of Cell Stress Biology
Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center  
Elm and Carlton Streets  
Buffalo, NY 14263