Shreesh Sammi

Sammi Lab focuses on molecular toxicology of neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders. Our research aims to identify how environmental toxicants such as surfactants, heavy metals, and pesticides induce or influence neurotoxicity related to these disorders. Specifically, I am investigating the potential connection between polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and Parkinson’s disease. This work involves uncovering the mechanistic basis of PFOS neurotoxicity, exploring mitochondrial involvement in PFOS-induced neurotoxicity, and assessing emerging PFAS compounds for shared mechanisms and endpoints. Additionally, we are working toward understanding the effects of heavy metal exposure in neurodegenerative disorders, including but not limited to Cd, Cr, and Mn. The focus of this project is to examine how heavy metals impact aging and aging mechanisms, as well as neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. We use various model systems, including cells, iPSCs, C. elegans, cell-free systems, and rodents.