Money will support Biomedical Research

HARTFORD, Conn. -- Susan Masino, associate professor of psychology and neuroscience, has been awarded a two-year, $222,829 grant by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), one of more than two dozen research institutes that comprise the National Institutes of Health.

The grant will help finance Masino’s project, “The modulation of adenosine by temperature, oxygen and glucose.” Chris Swart, lecturer and labor coordinator in neuroscience, is also participating in the research.

The grant marks a continuation of Masino’s support from NIH. When she joined Trinity’s faculty in the summer of 2003, she brought with her a multiyear grant from NINDS, a grant that expired in March 2007. NINDS is a leading supporter of biomedical research on the brain and nervous system and its mission is to reduce the burden of neurological disease.

Adenosine is a naturally occurring substance that plays a dual role in both metabolism and brain activity. Adenosine helps to promote sleep; protects neurons in the brain during any type of brain injury or seizure; and affects conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, chronic pain, head injuries, stroke, sleep disorders and epilepsy.

Research has shown that adenosine levels are altered significantly by changes in temperature, acidity, and oxygen and glucose levels.

The goal of Masino’s work is to understand how to control adenosine levels for maximum benefit. Ultimately, understanding how to regulate adenosine will facilitate the design of strategies to use it therapeutically for brain-related conditions and disorders.

Masino holds a B.S. in biopsychology from Tufts University and a Ph.D. from the University of California at Irvine.

She is one of two Trinity professors to be named a finalist for a Women of Innovation award by the Connecticut Technology Council. Trinity’s other faculty nominee is Sarah Raskin, associate professor of neuroscience and psychology. Haley Lepo, a member of the Class of 2008, is one of four finalists in the Collegian Innovation and Leadership category.

The program recognizes women who are innovators, role models and leaders in their fields. The winner in each of the eight categories will be announced at the 2008 Women of Innovation Awards Dinner on Jan. 30 at the Aqua Turf Club in Southington.