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Laboratory of Neuroprotection

Principal Investigators: Wayne B. Jonas, MD; John Ives, PhD

Affiliations: Walter Reed Army Institute of Research; Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences

Co-Founders: NCCAM, NIH

Background: Homeopathic remedies have been demonstrated to reduce brain damage, such as that associated with stroke, and improve cognitive function in cases of head trauma. It is also believed that they might offer protection against neurotoxins, such as those typically used as biological weapons.

Hypotheses: Homeopathic remedies at low doses can be used to limit glutamate toxicity, and brain damage in animals in which a stroke has been induced. Once these mechanisms are understood, it is believed that protective regimens can be developed to limit neuronal damage in a variety of circumstances

Methods and Materials: The Neuroprotection Laboratory contains a cell laboratory that studies the effects of glutamate and other neurotoxins in cell cultures, and an animal program that examines the in vivo protective effects against stroke. A proteomics lab is under development.

Anticipated results: This study will allow the understanding of detailed cellular dynamics during healing with homeopathic and low-dose substances. The often perceived phenomenon of cyclic effects with ultra low doses of homeopathic substances will be better understood. Neuroprotection and the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases with homeopathy may also be possible.

Relationship to SIIB mission and healing: The mechanisms of homeopathic dynamics are key to the Samueli Institute mission. An analysis of these effects will help scientists postulate the mechanisms of homeopathic impact, in conjunction with other Samueli Institute research.
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