Dr. Erica Dale (website): My research interests involve understanding mechanisms of spinal learning within the context of breathing function. Within the respiratory neural control network there are several known spinal mechanisms underlying plasticity and they all lead to a long-lasting increase in phrenic motor output; a direct correlation to contraction of the diaphragm and, thus, breathing. I have shown that hypoxia-inducible factors can act as neurotrophic stimulators of the phrenic motor network to elicit facilitation in much the same way. A large portion of my current research focus is aimed towards activating phrenic motor networks via electrical spinal cord stimulation to enable functional recovery of breathing after upper cervical spinal cord injury in rodents. Recently published work utilizing this model in a closed-loop stimulation paradigm has shown promise for eliciting plasticity within the respiratory motor network.

Dr. Alicia Vose (website): My research program is dedicated to enhancing motor recovery and developing innovative rehabilitation strategies for individuals with neurologic injuries. The primary focus of my lab is to elucidate the mechanisms underlying airway protection – specifically, the sensorimotor control of swallowing, cough function, and the coordination between breathing and swallowing—in populations impacted by neurologic impairments. With over a decade of clinical experience diagnosing and managing swallowing disorders (dysphagia) in neurologically affected populations I am committed to advancing therapeutic interventions that harness synaptic plasticity and support functional recovery. By investigating neurologic conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, and spinal cord injury, my research laboratory aims to pioneer evidence-based rehabilitation strategies that leverage neuroplasticity to drive sustained improvements in upper airway functions, including swallowing, phonation, respiration, and cough reflex integrity. Our interdisciplinary and translational research approach bridges basic science with clinical application, advancing both therapeutic outcomes and scientific understanding in aerodigestive health.

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