UNMC researcher Hui Peng, M.D., answers questions about her work, life and interests.
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Hui Peng, M.D. |
- Name: Hui Peng, M.D.
- Title: assistant professor of department of pharmacology and experimental neuroscience
- Joined UNMC: 2001
- Hometown: Wuhan, China
Describe your research in laymen’s terms.
New neurons are continuously added in specific regions of the adult human brain. These neurons develop from neural stem cells. My research focuses on studying neural stem cell behavior during disease processes such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s diseases and HIV-1-associated dementia.
How does your research contribute to science and/or health care?
By examining the effect of brain inflammatory factors on neural stem cell function, we can evaluate the role of disrupted adult neurogenesis in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. In the long term, this research will help to identify potential targets for therapeutic intervention for these diseases.
Name someone at UNMC who provides vital contributions to your success and briefly describe how they help you.
My mentor, Dr. Jialin Zheng, introduced me to this research field and continually guides me throughout this process. His encouragement and insightful suggestions have been invaluable for me to pursue a career in research. The spectacular research environment in the pharmacology and experimental neuroscience department, as well as the support from Dr. Howard Gendelman, chairman of the department, also has been crucial for my development as a new investigator.
List three things few people know about you.
- I enjoy cooking Chinese food for my husband and my friends.
- I practiced as a dermatologist for more than five years in China before I came to the United States.
- I love to watch movies, especially anime movies.