T. Dianne Langford, PhD

Research Interests

Dr. Langford’s research focuses on insult-driven changes in the brain. Her work revolves around two main areas of investigation, both of which examine cellular and biochemical responses to challenge. The areas of investigation include traumatic brain injury (TBI) and HIV infection of the central nervous system (CNS).

One main area of research in Dr. Langford’s laboratory addresses the effects of TBI on CNS systems.  In studies supported by the Army Research Laboratories, the Department of Defense and the National College Athletic Association, she conducts research to understand the effects of concussion on brain functioning and outcome. These highly integrated multidisciplinary studies concentrate not only on brain injury but also on injury prevention, recovery and resilience.

A second major area of research in her laboratory investigates HIV infection of the CNS and the interplay of drugs of abuse in damage to the brain. Studies supported by NIDA focus on changes to cells of the brain in the context of HIV infection and cocaine use, whereby energy deficit in glial cells leads to toxic effects to neurons. Other research projects into HIV-related neurodegenerative and neurorestorative processes center on protein-protein interactions that lead to disrupted neuronal signaling. NIMH supports these studies.

Educational Background

• Postdoctoral Fellowship, University of California San Diego School of Medicine, 2001
• PhD, Biological Sciences, University of Alabama, 1996

Digital Bibliography

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Additional Publications