Joo Eun Jung

Main research interest in Dr. Jung's lab is to identify novel cells-to cells communication, which contributes to stroke recovery via mitochondria-derived small peptides (MDPs) in neurovascular unit. Dr. Jung has been investigating role of mitochondrial transfer among cells in brain, which is involved in neuronal reactive oxygen species (ROS) defense, plasticity, and regeneration, as well as microglial switch for cleanup, repair, and functional recovery after stroke. She also has been studying the role of mitochondria in brain aging. She demonstrated that the mitochondrial-localized antioxidant protein, Mn-SOD is transcriptionally regulated by STAT3 (Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3) and is a potent neuroprotectant via blocking ROS overproduction in response to brain injury or aging. This discovery laid the groundwork for a better understanding of the role of mitochondria in stroke recovery. Dr. Jung's research aims to develop the translational approach targeting functional mitochondria in order to prevent neuronal impairment and promote brain remodeling after stroke.