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Neuro-Muscular Labs, a multi-lab neuroscience collective, is dedicated to unraveling the complexities of the nervous and muscular systems through a deeply collaborative and integrative approach. By uniting expertise in molecular biology, cellular neuroscience, and systems-level investigations, our researchers work together to understand how fundamental processes break down in neuromuscular and neurological diseases.
Across our labs, there is a strong focus on uncovering the mechanisms of axon degeneration, myelin instability, and age-related changes that drive disease onset and progression. This shared commitment to bridging basic science with translational research enables us to identify novel therapeutic targets and inform the development of innovative interventions.
Our teams are driven by a mission to translate discoveries from bench to bedside, ultimately improving outcomes for patients facing debilitating neuromuscular and neurological conditions. Through cutting-edge techniques, ranging from advanced imaging and genetic manipulation to preclinical modeling and clinical trial integration, we generate insights that not only advance fundamental scientific understanding but also have immediate relevance for therapy development.
Our emphasis on collaboration not only accelerates scientific discovery but also strengthens the training and mentorship of the next generation of neuroscientists. At Neuro-Muscular Labs, we believe that working seamlessly across disciplines and scales is essential to solving the intricate puzzle of neuromuscular diseases and delivering tangible impact for the individuals and families we aim to serve.
Advanced Imaging
Electrophysiology and Functional Analysis
Disease Model Across Scales
W. David Arnold, MD
Professor and NextGen Executive Director
Translational Neuromuscular Physiology
Smita Saxena, PhD
Professor
Neuronal and Circuit Vulnerability in Disease
Hiroshi Nishimune, PhD
Professor
NMJ Development and Degeneration
Ryan Castoro, DO
Assistant Professor
Proprioception and Peripheral Nerve Aging
Curtis Nutter, PhD
Assistant Professor
RNA Regulation in Epithelial and Neuromuscular Disease
Bornali Kundu, MD, PhD
Assistant Professor
Memory Networks and Brain Stimulation
Kathryn Moss, PhD
Assistant Professor
Dysmyelinating Neuropathy Mechanisms
Andrea Sierra Delgado, MD
Assistant Professor
Gene Therapy for Rare Neurological Disease
Kristina Kelly, DPT
Assistant Professor
Weakness and Fatigue in Aging and Disease
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Pathways
Research faculty, staff, clinicians, postdocs and students from across the UM System come together for NextGen Precision Health’s Pathways 2026 symposium. The event draws on pathbreaking work from across the University of Missouri System to celebrate research collaborations with the potential to impact global health.
