Trine Lisberg Toft

Trine Lisberg Toft

Assistant Professor

The large quantity within the mammalian brain must be under tight control as a disturbance in the cerebral water homeostasis may lead to neuronal dysfunction, hydrocephalus, and/or brain edema with increased intracranial pressure. Unfortunately, our incomplete knowledge of the molecular mechanisms responsible for the maintenance of cerebral water transport and their regulation currently prevents us from gaining a full understanding of this intricate and crucial (patho)physiological issue. Therefore, pharmacological therapy is essentially unavailable for potentially life-threatening conditions involving brain water accumulation. 

My research centers on understanding i) the molecular mechanisms governing water and ion balance in the mammalian brain under both physiological and pathophysiological conditions, ii) the role of specific ion channels and co-transporters involved and iii) brain- and cranial nerve damage, the hidden danger secondary to elevated intracranial pressure.

One of the notable consequences of increased intracranial pressure is its impact on vision. Elevated pressure within the cranial cavity can lead to optic nerve compression and compromise blood flow to the eyes, resulting in impaired vision. 

The ultimate goal is to pinpoint potential targets for pharmacological interventions, not only to address the broader challenges of cerebral water homeostasis but also to mitigate the specific risks posed to vision due to elevated intracranial pressure.

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