IDENTIFYING MORE EFFECTIVE TREATMENT PATHWAYS Once a genetic diagnosis is made, scientists can dive deeper into developmental pathways disrupted by the genetic variation to help identify potential therapeutics to improve the individual’s quality of life. Dr. Kodani specializes in this process of understanding the genetics of brain development and the role played by disease- associated genetic changes. Working with clinicians across the country to identify a genetic diagnosis for patients, Dr. Kodani then focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms of neurodevelopmental disease to identify specific treatment pathways that can be targeted by existing medications, therapies, or dietary recommendations. Continuing research he started during his time at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Dr. Kodani’s lab focuses on finding treatments that may improve the quality of life for children who struggle with rare neurodevelopmental disorders.
ANDREW KODANI, PHD FACULTY INVESTIGATOR
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GENETICS AND GENOMICS OFFER US AN INCREDIBLE OPPORTUNITY TO BETTER UNDERSTAND WHAT’S GOING ON UNDER THE SURFACE OF A CHILD’S DIAGNOSIS. BY COMBINING THOSE FIELDS WITH CELLULAR BIOLOGY, MY LAB AND I ARE ABLE TO IDENTIFY WAYS TO IMPROVE QUALITY OF LIFE FOR CHILDREN WHO HAVE SPENT YEARS SEARCHING FOR SOLUTIONS. WE BELIEVE EVERY CHILD DESERVES A HAPPY CHILDHOOD, AND WHILE WE CAN’T RESEARCH EVERY DISORDER, OUR WORK ENSURES FAMILIES DON’T HAVE TO FACE THESE DISEASES ALONE.
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