Summer ROCKEFELLER 2019

INSTITUTE at WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY TABLE OF 10 Department of Neuroscience

CONTENTS 12 Department of Neurology

2 Message from the Executive Chair 14 Department of Neurosurgery

4 WVU Medicine At-Large 16 Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry 5 Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute Structure 18 Human Performance Center

6 RNI by the Numbers 20 Research and Innovation Ecosystem

The Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute Multidisciplinary Team 22 Milestones celebrated the opening of its new Innovation 8 Center on May 15, 2019. L-R: Albert Wright, Jr., PharmD, MHA; Ali Rezai, MD; Sharon Percy Rockefeller; Sen. John D. “Jay” Rockefeller IV; Charles Rockefeller; Clay Marsh, MD; Laurie Erickson; Gordon Gee, JD, EdD. Dear Friends, The Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute (RNI) is has attracted brilliant minds to Morgantown with unlocking mysteries of maladies that can strike at the opportunity to engage in purpose-driven work the very heart of our humanity with a sense of urgency. Dr. and affect us to our souls. Rezai and the entire RNI team My sisters and I felt helpless are making groundbreaking as the ravages of Alzheimer’s progress with first-in-the-world stripped our mother, Blanchette treatments and unprecedented Hooker Rockefeller, of her partnerships. ability to appreciate music, art, The global impact of new and loved ones. The disease treatment options for devastating stripped her of her dignity. It neurological disorders and extinguished the light from her the RNI’s expanded focus on blue eyes. addiction research can be Heart-broken, Hope, Alida, transformative and life-giving. Sandra, and I knew that we must My vision was that advances do everything in our power to Then-Governor John D. Rockefeller IV in neuroscience would one day and his mother, Blanchette Rockefeller. end that kind of suffering. And, I (Photo: R. Corkery/NY Daily News Archive via Getty Images.) bring hope to families like mine. knew that West Virginia, a place The RNI is taking us there. where people are driven by passion and purpose, was the right place to fulfill that Be well, mission. Two decades ago, my sisters and I helped to “The Boundless Brain” mural, a found an institute that would begin that journey. depiction of half a million neurons in the human brain, adorns the lobby of the Today, we celebrate the promise that is being Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute Innovation Center. realized. The Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute Jay Rockefeller The mural was created by Greg Dunn and Brian Edwards.

1 “We care deeply about our patients and families in West MESSAGE FROM THE Virginia, across the country, and around the world; our boldest EXECUTIVE CHAIR aspiration is to make their lives better, one person at a time.”

I was drawn to West Virginia for the incredible opportunity to establish We care deeply about our patients and families in West the Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute with the compelling vision and Virginia, across the country, and around the world; our boldest commitment of Senator John D. Rockefeller IV and the leadership aspiration is to make their lives better, one person at a time. Our of West Virginia University. Deeply rooted in a culture of passion, team is passionate about the RNI and the opportunity to break purpose, and collaboration, the RNI is a unique institute with a bold barriers in neuroscience, impacting patient care and tackling the vision of advancing brain health and innovation in the treatment of big public health challenges facing us. neurological disease. We are bringing together the brightest minds in RNI IN THE NEWS We hope you enjoy learning more about the RNI and look research and patient care, deploying the latest technology solutions, Collision: No more forward to sharing our outcomes as we progress. and fostering key relationships with academic, private sector, and neurodegeneration? governmental partners. The British Medical Journal’s Warm regards, In our inaugural year, we have pioneered clinical trials to treat Ashley McKimm interviewed Alzheimer’s disease using focused ultrasound to open the blood- Dr. Rezai at Collision, North America’s fastest-growing brain barrier and to help those with chronic pain using a novel tech conference. non-opioid micropellet drug delivery technology. We have also May 23, 2019 deployed one of the largest longitudinal machine-learning and Ali R. Rezai, MD predictive data analytics frameworks in neuroscience with over Executive Chair, RNI 35,000 individual participants to date. John D. Rockefeller IV Chair in Neuroscience

OUR MISSION

With the latest technologies, an ecosystem of partners, and a truly WE ARE IMPROVING LIVES BY integrated approach, we are making tangible progress. Our breakthroughs in neuroscience are strengthening our efforts to combat public health challenges ranging from addiction to Alzheimer’s. Our collaboration with elite PIONEERING athletes and members of the military in optimizing human performance are leading to new innovations. We are breaking barriers in research and patient ADVANCES IN BRAIN HEALTH. care to better serve the people of West Virginia and beyond. Learn more about the RNI’s first-in-the-world clinical trials and the top-caliber experts joining us in our mission by visiting WVUMedicine.org/RNI

2 3 WVU MEDICINE ROCKEFELLER NEUROSCIENCE

MEMBER SYSTEM AT-LARGE HOSPITALS INSTITUTE STRUCTURE WVU Medicine is the state’s largest health system and private COMPREHENSIVE. INTEGRATED. PATIENT-CENTRIC. employer. Comprised of 18 hospitals and nearly 100 clinics, the WVU 1. J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital, WVU Health System’s mission is to improve the health of West Virginians Medicine’s flagship and all the people we serve through excellence in patient care, hospital in Morgantown research, and education. The Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute (RNI) “The RNI is designed to be both a world- 2. United Hospital Center is the premier multidisciplinary institute for class research institute and a healthcare patient care, research, and teaching in West 3. St. Joseph’s Hospital Virginia and the region. The RNI’s flagship provider to a diverse patient base. 4. Braxton County facilities are located on the Health Sciences This dual function gives the Institute Memorial Hospital campus in Morgantown, with more than unparalleled insight into the issues 5. Reynolds 1,000 dedicated team members across four 2,013,759 277,954 9,145 1,697 Memorial Hospital departments, patient care units, and research facing real patients, as it works to tackle Clinic Visits Emergency Telemedicine Helicopter laboratories. 6. Potomac Valley Room Visits Visits Patient Transfers the world’s biggest health challenges.” Hospital Albert L. Wright, Jr., PharmD, MHA 7. Berkeley President and CEO, Medical Center West Virginia University Health System 8. Camden Clark Medical Center 18,395 3,742 1,657 63,031 5,373 9. Jefferson Employees Students Beds Surgeries Births The RNI facilities on the WVU Health Sciences’ main campus in Morgantown. Medical Center

10. Summersville Regional Hancock Medical Center Hospital Harrison Brooke Clinic 15 Pennsylvania 14 Belmont Ohio MANAGED HOSPITALS 18 5 Maryland Erma Byrd Fayette 11. Wetzel County Hospital Biomedical Ohio Marshall Greene Monroe Research Center 11 Monongalia Allegany Washington Wetzel Garrett 12. Jackson General 1 Berkeley Innovation Washington Marion Hospital Preston 13 6 7 Center Mineral 9 Future Brain & 8 2 Taylor Doddridge Jefferson 13. Garrett Regional Harrison 17 Spine Hospital Wood Ritchie Barbour Tucker Grant Frederick Medical Center Lewis Hardy Gilmer 3 Chestnut Ridge 16 Warren 12 14. Wheeling Hospital Upshur Randolph Center Jackson Braxton 4 15. Harrison Community J.W. Ruby Memorial Putnam Virginia Hospital Clay Webster Physician Office Center: Cabell Hospital Kanawha Neuro Ambulatory 10 Pocahontas Nicholas AFFILIATE HOSPITALS and Education

Greenbrier 16. Davis Health System Logan Raleigh Mingo WVU Medicine attracts 17. Broaddus Hospital patients from all 50 states Kentucky and internationally. 18. Barnesville Hospital McDowell Mercer

4 5 RNI BY THE NUMBERS CY 2018

Telemedicine offers patients in remote locations 4 2,904 144,959 130 5,619 access to world-class care offered at WVU Medicine DEPARTMENTS SURGICAL PROGRAM FACULTY TELEMEDICINE with the use of telecommunication technology. / Neuroscience PROCEDURES CLINIC VISITS The RNI has a rapidly growing telemedicine / Neurology VISITS program that treats three specialty areas: / Neurosurgery + / Behavioral Medicine + 6 18 21 and Psychiatry TELENEUROLOGY TELESTROKE TELEPSYCHIATRY 73 SITES SITES SITES + 135 RESIDENTS AND GAMMA KNIFE 21 POSTDOCTORAL Hancock PROCEDURES CLINICAL FELLOWS 7 LOCATIONS Brooke Pennsylvania AFFILIATE Ohio DEPARTMENTS Fayette Maryland + + Marshall / Oncology Ohio Monongalia / Ophthalmology Behavioral Medicine Wetzel Garrett Marion Berkeley / Orthopaedics 949 Neurosurgery 56 Preston / Otolaryngology Mineral NEURO- Neurology ADVANCED Jefferson / Pain / Anesthesiology INTERVENTIONAL PRACTICE Wood Barbour / Pathology PROCEDURES PROVIDERS Lewis Upshur / Radiology Randolph Jackson Calhoun Roane Virginia + Clay Kanawha Nicholas Pocahontas

718 Teleneurology and Telestroke Site Raleigh CLINICAL, Mingo RESEARCH, Wyoming Telestroke Site Kentucky ADMINISTRATIVE McDowell Mercer Telepsychiatry Site SUPPORT STAFF

The RNI implements personalized, neuroscience- based strategies to oversee the monitoring, assessment, recovery, and improved performance for 15 RNI The RNI recognized the outstanding performance of 30,000+ TEAM MEMBERS faculty, trainees, and staff on July 11, honoring each MILITARY PERSONNEL AND ATHLETES with a 2019 RNI Excellence Award.

6 7 PATIENT CARE

MULTIDISCIPLINARY TEAM On June 18, 2019,the multidisciplinary team at the Integrated across disciplines RNI treated its first essential tremor patient using focused ultrasound, resulting in resolution of tremor and marking a ‘first’ for West Virginia. TEAM OF SPECIALISTS FROM: Administration Neuroscience

A key strategic initiative for the RNI is the development of multidisciplinary centers with a focus on Anesthesiology Neurosurgery BRAIN HEALTH holistic patient care. In its first year, the RNI expanded the centers listed below, integrating multiple FOR EVERYONE disciplines and forming a team of specialists. The team coordinates a comprehensive approach to Biomedical Nursing optimize the diagnosis, management, and treatments of those impacted by neurological disorders. Engineering In addition to addressing neurological Occupational Planning is underway for future multidisciplinary centers. disorders, the multidisciplinary RNI team Clinical Labs Therapy is studying the neuroscience of brain Computer Science Pharmacy health with personalized assessments, MULTIDISCIPLINARY CENTERS 2019 prescriptive recovery, and health Data Science Physical Medicine optimization strategies linked to: and Rehabilitation Exercise Physiology / Cognitive Enhancement Physical Therapy Experimental / Exercise Psychology Physiology / Meditation and Mindfulness ADDICTION MOVEMENT / Neuromodulation DISORDERS Neurology Psychiatry / Nutrition CHRONIC PAIN Neuropsychology Social Work / Sleep and Circadian Rhythms NEUROMODULATION / Stress and Brain-Body Connections COGNITIVE DISORDERS Neuroradiology Speech Pathology NEURO-ONCOLOGY EPILEPSY SPINE “Innovation in healthcare is important so that we can restore health more HEADACHE quickly and completely – a particularly important task in West Virginia and our STROKE HUMAN PERFORMANCE region since patients frequently need to Judie Charlton, MD travel far for care. We are getting closer Chief Medical Officer, WVU Medicine to this goal with our innovations.” and University Health Associates

8 9 DEPARTMENTS “Feed Our Brains” Outreach Program

Students in the Department of Neuroscience at the West Virginia University School of Medicine are leading a campaign, “Feed Our Brains,” to raise money to pay off DEPARTMENT OF overdue student lunch balances at schools in the greater Monongalia NEUROSCIENCE County area. A hub for innovation and discovery To support their campaign, WVU Neuroscience students launched a t-shirt fundraiser.

CORE NEUROSCIENCE The newly created Department of Neuroscience is the RNI’s intellectual hub RESEARCH RNI IN THE NEWS RNI IN THE NEWS for basic and foundational research and translational applications. Chair AREAS: WVU neuroscientist 15 Gut Health Randy J. Nelson, PhD, says, “Building a new home for brain research and explores fighting Research education is an incredibly exciting opportunity. We’re linking interdisciplinary Stroke weight gain with Breakthroughs resources in imaginative and creative ways.” darkness That Could Change Addiction As an example of nimble translation of animal research at the RNI, our The Associated Press, Everything March 4, 2019 team published papers showing the negative effects of dim light at night Reader’s Digest, Human performance May 2019 on animal recovery after stroke or cardiac arrest. Within months, we have started a clinical trial to examine the role of lighting on patient recovery in Cognitive decline the cardiac intensive care unit.” Sensory neuroscience Dr. Nelson leads a team of 18 primary and more FACULTY HIGHLIGHTS than 50 secondary faculty with plans to significantly Circadian rhythms increase faculty size. and sleep

New collaborations, new opportunities Cross-departmental collaborations exponentially expand reach and scope. “By integrating neuroscience research with other disciplines, we can help patients, create novel Candice Brown, PhD, A. Courtney DeVries, Vincent S. Setola, PhD, Bernard Schreurs, opportunities for our staff and students, and provide economic benefits for our Assistant Professor PhD, John T. and Assistant Professor PhD, Professor state,” says Dr. Nelson. “Working closely with our clinical colleagues to translate of Neuroscience June R. Chambers of Neuroscience of Neuroscience basic research rapidly to the clinic is a major goal of the new department.” Studies how sepsis and Chair of Oncology Uses mouse models to Named the 2018-2019 dementia interact on a Research, Professor better understand the Benedum Distinguished cellular and molecular of Neuroscience genetics, brain regions, Scholar Award for his DEPARTMENT CHAIR level, potentially making Recipient of three and molecular players pathbreaking work in both diseases’ symptoms current NIH R01 grants involved in drug abuse learning and memory; Randy J. Nelson, PhD, Director of RNI Basic Science Research, more intense and their exploring the effects of much of his work provides and Hazel Ruby McQuain Chair for Neurological Research onset premature social isolation on health the foundational basis for outcomes ranging from understanding human Director of the WVU Neuroscience Graduate Program and recent recipient of the stroke to cancer memory problems including Award for Education in Neuroscience by the Society for Neuroscience. Dr. Nelson Alzheimer’s disease studies how disrupted circadian rhythms affect health and disease outcomes. 10 11 DEPARTMENTS The WVU Stroke Center

The WVU Stroke Center is the only certified, comprehensive stroke center in West Virginia with advanced capabilities, 24/7 availability of specialized treatments, and staff with the unique education and competencies to care for complex stroke patients.

NEUROINTERVENTIONAL SERVICES As part of the comprehensive stroke center, three neurointerventional radiologists provide round-the-clock, minimally invasive endovascular therapy DEPARTMENT OF for the treatment of stroke and other cerebrovascular disorders. NEUROLOGY RNI IN THE NEWS RNI IN THE NEWS Neuromodulation as a Treatment for Migraine The WEB Device Broadening our impact with comprehensive care Umer Najib, MD, FAHS for Aneurysms American Headache Society, April 2019 WV News, April 5, 2019

Neurologists on Demand: Neurological care spans many disciplines. “If we can better manage pain through Telemedicine Brings DEPARTMENT FACULTY HIGHLIGHTS the combination of neurological care, psychological therapies, and neuromodulation Specialists to You CHAIR techniques, we will have a positive impact in preventing the development of In a rural state, access to Umer Najib, MD, Assistant Professor and David Watson, MD, Director, highly specialized care can Program Director, Headache Medicine Fellowship substance abuse problems,” says David Watson, MD, department chair. WVU Headache Center be a challenge, and patients Leads the development of the transcranial magnetic experiencing a neurological stimulation (TMS) program Chair of the Advocacy Engagement Headache program improves lives event can experience further Subcommittee of the American Three Headache Medicine certified neurologists and two nurse practitioners suffering if not treated Academy of Neurology and a quickly. The Department of offer thorough evaluation and diagnosis for people with complex headache- native West Virginian Neurology provides a life- related conditions. They also provide aggressive management, including non- Ann Marie Murray, MD, Assistant Professor saving alternative through and Neurology Student Clerkship Director pharmacologic and pharmacologic treatments, nerve blocks, chemodenervation, its telemedicine program, Movement disorders specialist, West Virginia native, and various neuromodulation techniques, for debilitating conditions, including allowing patients to be and delegate to American Medical Association cluster headache and migraine. “Headaches co-exist with many other evaluated without leaving conditions—depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, addiction,” says Dr. their communities. Watson. “Our efforts are focused on better understanding the unique drivers of headache disease, improving access to care, and finding new treatment options.” Muhammad Alvi, MD, Assistant Professor and Medical Director, WVU Stroke Program Stroke neurologist who has worked extensively on Expanding options for research and patient care understanding and preventing “silent strokes,” which Other ongoing research includes investigations into neuromuscular conditions, stroke and often go unnoticed; Develops collaborations across cerebrovascular disease, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis. Fellowships are expanding the team’s ability to departments to deliver top-notch care to patients at the further train new neurologists, and new faculty in movement disorders, epilepsy, stroke, neurocritical care, state’s only comprehensive stroke center and neuroimmunology are joining our team. With a nationwide shortage of neurologists, “The question becomes, in addition to expanding our programs locally, how can we help people who have difficulties reaching us in Morgantown?” Dr. Watson SoHyun Boo, MD, Associate Stroke Director for asks. “We’re determined to grow our services into underserved areas by recruiting more neurologists, Endovascular Therapies Assistant professor and section chief for Radiology and expanding our telemedicine program, and developing more satellite clinics. In addition to serving West Interventional Neuroradiology Virginians, our goal is that the RNI becomes a hub of excellence and a national center where people come to get the neurological care they need.”

12 13 DEPARTMENTS Becoming a Destination Center

The Pediatric Neurosurgery program provides state-of-the-art care for infants, children, and adolescents with problems of the brain and spine. Among the many conditions treated is epilepsy, for which there are many surgical options. DEPARTMENT OF Dr. Mark Lee and his team are working toward making the program at the RNI a destination center for pediatric epilepsy, The WVU Medicine Children’s NEUROSURGERY Hospital and Birthing Center is providing care not only for patients in Rapid expansion leading to exciting opportunities scheduled to open in 2021. West Virginia, but across the nation.

RNI IN THE NEWS

Rapid growth in Neurosurgery is providing Resulting device Doctors eye FACULTY HIGHLIGHTS DEPARTMENT CHAIR exciting possibilities for patients, according to development and deep brain Department Chair Mark Lee, MD, PhD, MBA. other enterprises will stimulation to treat opioid Robert Marsh, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor/ Mark Lee, MD, PhD, MBA “We’re creating multidisciplinary options in areas create intellectual addiction Section Chief, Neurotrauma such as epilepsy, chronic pain, interventional property and Fits patients with cutting-edge artificial disks, allowing Joined the RNI from the Dell Seton The Associated Press, quick recovery from injury and increased flexibility Medical Center at The University of neuroradiology, movement disorders, and commercialization May 8, 2019 Texas, Austin, and previously served degenerative conditions, including Alzheimer’s opportunities for the as the Allen Distinguished Chair in Neurosurgery at the Medical College disease,” says Dr. Lee. Institute and state. Cara L. Sedney, MD, MA, BC, FAANS, Assistant of Georgia, Augusta New approaches to patient care are Startups can generate Professor/Assistant Program Director bolstering the program’s growth, as experts more entrepreneurial research, educational Specializes in spine surgery and completed her in neurovascular, epilepsy, neuromodulation, options, and opportunities for commercial spinoffs. medical degree and orthopaedic spine surgery fellowship training at the WVU School of Medicine pediatric neuroscience, and complex surgical techniques are pioneering novel treatments. Educational expansion for more “For an increasing number of patients, we are specialized care the destination to help with difficult, chronic Over the past several years, additional residents Ansaar Rai, MD, Professor and Vice Chair, neurological conditions,” says Dr. Lee. and fellows have joined the expanding program. Clinical Operations Specialty areas include: focused ultrasound, Specializes in endovascular neurosurgery for minimally invasive treatment of cerebrovascular disorders Technology incubator endovascular interventional neuroradiology, catalyzes solutions critical care and functional neurosurgery, In 2019, the Department will launch a new neuromodulation, and a novel neurosurgery technology incubator for trainees and researchers entrepreneur track. “Our trainees are a big part Nicholas Brandmeir, MD, Assistant Professor in partnership with the MBA program in the of our future, and we’re working on tremendous Clinical research includes exploring the clinical impacts of postural instability on people with WVU John Chambers College of Business and opportunities for them,” says Dr. Lee. movement disorders Economics. “We will be instrumental in identifying “There is enormous energy and vision here to patient issues and providing ideas, support, and support greatness and success. It feels like the resources to create solutions,” says Dr. Lee. very beginning of big things to come.”

14 15 DEPARTMENTS United Summit Center (USC) Pregnant RNI IN THE NEWS and Postpartum Women’s Program Addiction: Discover how opioid Designed to help treat pregnant women with addiction affects the brain and how DEPARTMENT OF substance use and mental illnesses during pregnancy evidence-based and postpartum, the USC Pregnant and Postpartum treatments are Women’s Program offers a long-term substance abuse saving lives residential treatment facility. The program provides PBS NOVA, BEHAVIORAL individualized treatment plans that include long-term October 17, 2018 recovery, a strong support system, and access to community services. MEDICINE AND RNI IN THE NEWS Rise in suicide rates in U.S. youth, PSYCHIATRY especially girls Expanding access, fostering hope Reuters, May 21, 2019

COAT CLINIC FACULTY HIGHLIGHTS The RNI’s Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry (COAT) program Since its establishment in team offers the full range of services from inpatient to provide the 2004, the Comprehensive and outpatient programs, residential treatment, essential biological, Opioid Addiction Treatment satellite clinics, and tele-psychiatry to patients psychological, and (COAT) clinic has treated across the lifespan from young children to elderly social elements of nearly 4,000 patients. This nationally recognized adults. In addition to direct patient care, it extends recovery treatment model has trained four John Campo, MD, Kari Beth Law, MD, Richard T. Gross, PhD, Laura Lander, MSW, the reach of quality behavioral health treatment to thousands of sites throughout the Assistant Dean of Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, Associate Professor, Behavioral Health Psychiatry Section Psychology Section Social Work Section into rural communities using remote video-based patients. The COAT state, which in turn have trained 14 clinics. and Wellness and Chief, and Director, Chief, and Clinical Chief, and Chair of the consultation and mentorship to local providers. program has gained Chief Behavioral Telepsychiatry Program Psychologist Research Committee Groundbreaking research conducted by the a national reputation Wellness Officer Published work on the Dr. Gross has published Specializes in addiction team includes harnessing the power of emerging of excellence, and Previously served at The exclusion of psychiatric work on opioid use in and substance use Ohio State Wexner Medical diagnosis and substance patients undergoing disorders in pregnancy technology to combat devastating brain disorders. providers from across the country have come to Center as the Sinsabaugh use in death penalty case rehabilitation for chronic Such research includes focused ultrasound, Morgantown to see the team at work. Professor and Chair of the appeals and constitutional pain and the attendant risks deep brain stimulation, and transcranial magnetic Department of Psychiatry rights violations in stimulation for opioid use disorder. The department New fellowships, a dedicated team and Behavioral Health civil commitment is an active partner with public and private In addition to treatment and research, the department agencies and receives grant funding from the has a vital role in training the next generation of DEPARTMENT National Institutes of Health, the Substance Abuse behavioral healthcare providers. The team recently INTERIM CHAIR and Mental Health Services Administration, the welcomed the first fellow in addiction medicine to James H. Berry, DO, Health Resources and Services Administration, and its complement of 34 residents and fellows, whose Director of Addiction Services the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute. specialties include general psychiatry, child and adolescent psychiatry, and forensic psychiatry, plus National addiction expert and A national model for addiction two psychology interns and three psychology fellows. recipient of the West Virginia Innovation Now Award in 2019 treatment and recovery “We see many patients who are struggling by Addiction Policy Forum The team has been at the forefront of addressing mightily,” says Dr. Berry. “But through the efforts the national addiction epidemic. In the early days of our institution’s leadership, faculty and staff, and The new Center for Hope and Healing, which opened on March 1, offers world-class detox and treatment programs of the opioid crisis, it developed the group-based the people of our state, we have an opportunity to for people struggling with substance use disorder. Comprehensive Opioid Addiction Treatment turn the tide on suffering. I’m confident we will.” 16 17 RESEARCH ENTERPRISE Case Study 2016 Olympic Gold Medalist Ginny Thrasher worked with the RNI to monitor and assess her sleep, heart rate, and heart rate variability to see which improvements would benefit her performance.

The RNI is currently working with HUMAN every branch of the US Military in research and technology development aimed at PERFORMANCE optimizing the performance, safety, recovery and health of SERVICE MEMBERS CENTER 27,000+ Photo courtesy of WVU Athletics Communications

1 MONITOR 2 ASSESS 3 IMPROVE

We start by collecting a Collected data is de-identified, Using advanced recovery research, comprehensive set of validated data secured, then standardized and the team is able to prescriptively consisting of physiological, cognitive, indexed in the RNI Cloud. The team apply modalities that build resiliency, performance, biomarkers, and applies advanced data analytics to enhance performance, and accelerate subjective data generated in both help predict outcomes for individuals recovery both acutely and chronically Our team is committed to discovering, developing, laboratory and natural settings. and groups across populations. through advanced recovery strategies. and delivering world-class human performance research, technology, and tools to the scientific Scott Galster, PhD, Vice Victor Finomore, PhD, Director Josh Hagen, PhD, Director community and the populations we serve. We Chair and Director of of Research, Development, of Human Performance focus on improving readiness and optimizing Applied Neuroscience and Data Analytics Innovation Center performance and recovery with:

/ Active Duty Military / Executives / Elite Athletes / Veterans

The foundation for this work is based on a multifaceted, yet unifying framework that’s driven by three recursive actions: monitoring drives assessment and sets the course for improvement.

18 19 COLLABORATORS RESEARCH AND The RNI ecosystem leverages the latest FOCUSED ULTRASOUND (FUS) innovative technologies coupled with focused In close collaboration with INSIGHTEC, the RNI is conducting cutting-edge FUS studies opening the INNOVATION strategic partnerships with academia, blood-brain barrier in patients with Alzheimer’s disease and glioblastoma tumors. Additional studies are government, and industry to rapidly underway using FUS as a neuromodulation tool for the treatment of opioid use disorder. ECOSYSTEM accelerate discovery and patient care. DATA ANALYTICS FOR POPULATION HEALTH The RNI team has developed a robust infrastructure for large-scale longitudinal data acquisition across conditions such as addiction, chronic pain, and aging. The team’s approach focuses on data streams from DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION (DBS) multiple sources, including wearable devices, mobile apps, biomarkers, imaging, and functional and clinical The RNI is working with the National Institute of status. The RNI cloud links this data to a real time analytic platform using machine learning and predictive Drug Abuse (NIDA) and Medtronic in a research modeling to foster the development of personalized and innovative treatments. partnership investigating the use of DBS in the There are currently millions of data records residing in the RNI Cloud. Nucleus Accumbens for severe, treatment- resistant opioid use disorder. This first-in-the-US study will examine the safety and feasibility of DBS TRANSCRANIAL MAGNETIC in this population. STIMULATION (TMS) In partnership with MAGSTIM, the RNI is exploring Working closely with the Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience at L’Ecole Polytechnique Federale de the use of TMS combined with rehabilitation to Lausanne (EPFL) in Switzerland, a systematic series of research projects are underway with intraoperative improve motor and cognitive function. Specific physiological recordings to further understand the neuroscience of consciousness. projects are examining TMS and interactive gaming for addiction and Alzheimer’s disease. VIRTUAL REALITY The RNI’s partnership with a neurotechnology company uses virtual reality technology in combination with neuromodulation to explore innovative treatment options for stroke, chronic pain, addiction, and cognitive decline. LEADERSHIP SPOTLIGHT

“The RNI houses one of the most sophisticated integrated human Laura F. Gibson, PhD Marc Haut, PhD Sally Hodder, MD performance laboratories in the world. Focusing on solving critical problems Associate Dean for Research, Director, Clinical Research Director, West Virginia Clinical WVU School of Medicine and Education and Translational Science in neurological health and disease today, the RNI collaborates with hand- In addition to supporting an optimal The RNI conducts cutting-edge Institute (WVCTSI) research infrastructure to nurture clinicial trials to solve public health The WVCTSI recently received $20 selected partners to form a world-class innovative science across schools challenges and explore innovations million in renewal NIH funding to build Clay B. Marsh, MD and institutes, Dr. Gibson’s team in neuroscience and clinical care. research infrastructure to improve innovation engine to create the field of Vice President and Executive Dean, oversees students and postdoctoral health outcomes, good clinical brain health tomorrow.” WVU Health Sciences fellows’ training. practices, and regulatory compliance.

20 21 “Our physicians and researchers at the Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute continue to produce amazing discoveries that will improve people’s lives and change the trajectory of our State’s health.” MILESTONES E. Gordon Gee, President, West Virginia University Driven by an unwavering commitment to West Virginia, the RNI is forging new paths Senator John D. to better connect scientific research with patient care. Over the course of the year, “Jay” Rockefeller the Institute’s commitment has resulted in several firsts, from the launch of its new IV joined the RNI Innovation Center to several breakthroughs in neuroscience to hosting its first-ever team to dedicate the new RNI Innovation Summit, which attracted more than 300 participants from across the globe. center in May 2019. RNI Pioneer Award

From top to bottom: Judi Polak and Ian Burkhart were each The state-of-the-art recognized with the RNI’s “Pioneer Award.” Pictured from left Grand Opening of the RNI Innovation Center to right: Terre Burkhart (Ian’s mother); Ian Burkhart; Ali Rezai, MD; Judi Polak; and Mark Polak, MD (Judi’s husband). Partners Innovation Center Panel discusses improving population health and wellness. Miles O’Brien was the featured moderator. Attendees are On May 15, 2019, the RNI was welcomed to the Summit. joined by nearly 300 attendees as it celebrated the opening of its new The RNI Inaugural Summit: Innovation Center, a state-of-the-art Breaking Barriers facility featuring the latest technology for rapid translational human research. World-renowned experts from academia, The event kicked off with a dedication healthcare, private sector, athletics, and ceremony, featuring remarks from government gathered in Morgantown May 15-17 Sen. John D. “Jay” Rockefeller IV to explore the latest breakthroughs in combating and WVU President E. Gordon Gee, public health challenges, such as Alzheimer’s and was followed by a reception and disease and addiction, and optimizing brain tours of the Center. health and performance during its Inaugural Summit, “Breaking Barriers.” The event featured remarks from:

• Sen. John D. “Jay” Rockefeller IV • Sam Quinones, bestselling author of DREAMLAND: The True Tale of America’s Opiate Epidemic • Miles O’Brien, PBS NewsHour science correspondent Guests enjoy the reception held in • Tony Buettner, national spokesperson for the lobby of the new Blue Zones Innovation Center. • NCAA coaches from various athletic programs

22 23 WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute WVU Rockefeller The WVU team is joined pioneers promising new alzheimer’s therapy Neuroscience Institute now by Arianna Huffington. offering new, non-invasive On October 16, 2018, Judi Polak, a former WVU According to WVU Health System President treatment for movement Medicine neonatal ICU nurse practitioner, became and CEO Albert Wright, Jr., “In some ways, this disorders the first Alzheimer’s patient in the world to undergo was kind of like the team that put a man on the a Phase II study using focused ultrasound to open moon, and I’ll always remember that moment.” The RNI performed its first the blood-brain barrier in the hippocampus. A As of May 2019, three patients with MR-guided focused ultrasound multidisciplinary team of over 30 specialists, in Alzheimer’s have been treated with focused procedure for essential tremor on RNI IN THE NEWS collaboration with INSIGHTEC, a global medical ultrasound at the RNI. June 18, making it the only site in Can West Virginia technology innovator, performed the procedure. West Virginia and just one of 15 Solve America’s sites in the US utilizing this new, Healthcare FDA-approved treatment. The first Problems? patient was a 71-year-old male Fortune, March 20, 2018 RNI IN THE NEWS who had complete resolution of Battling his tremor immediately following the procedure. Alzheimer’s RNI IN THE NEWS through Better Access to the Brain Researchers study Scientific American, how hospital November 2, 2018 lighting at night may hinder heart patients’ recovery RNI IN THE NEWS Becker’s Hospital Review, Doctors perform November 2018 promising new Alzheimer’s therapy NBC Fort Myers, November 5, 2018

RNI IN THE NEWS Clinical trial for chronic Neurointerventional pain launched utilizing services RNI team named RNI IN THE NEWS ‘West Virginian of non-opioid micropellet the Year’ implant In keeping with its tradition of being TEDxWVU: innovative and a leader in the field, Breaking Barriers NCWV Media, January 2019 The RNI marked a major the WVU Neurointerventional and In Neuroscience milestone in November 2018 Neurovascular program became Dr. Rezai for TedxWVU, March 2, 2019 by enrolling the first patient in a one of the first sites in the country randomized clinical trial testing the to use a new cerebral aneurysm WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience “LiTT has the ability to make areas of the brain effectiveness of an injectable non- treatment implant called the WEB RNI IN THE NEWS Institute surgeons perform minimally accessible that previously were not and to provide opioid, non-steroid micropellet for Woven Endobridge device. invasive surgery for epilepsy patients with minimally invasive options that to treat sciatica. The clonidine WVU Medicine was also part of a Pellet Carrying would not exist otherwise,” Nicholas Brandmeir, micropellet, which is half the size pivotal trial completed two years Blood Pressure MD, WVU Medicine neurosurgeon, said. “This ago and is leading in the number of Medication Offers In November 2018, surgeons at the WVU of a grain of rice, is placed in a New Hope for Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute performed technology allows us to start moving past the patient’s lower back for extended cases treated. WVU faculty serve Sciatica Patients the state’s first laser interstitial thermal therapy era of open brain surgery for epilepsy and other release of drug-delivery to combat as proctors and are training other CBS New York, (LiTT) procedure for drug-resistant epilepsy conditions and toward a future of minimally chronic sciatica pain. physicians across the country to February 21, 2019 caused by focal seizures. invasive, outpatient options.” use this new technology.

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