Harry T. Orr, Ph.D.

Dr. Orr’s research is centered on uncovering mechanisms that underly the development of aging of neurons in the cerebellum. His team previously discovered a genetic cause of spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1). This research program aims to identify signaling pathways and cellular mediators of SCA1 pathogenesis in the cerebellum and brainstem that lead to ataxia and lethality, respectively. These efforts are critical in the search for therapeutics to treat loss of motor coordination, slurred speech, swallowing difficulty, spasticity, and some cognitive impairments that are associated with SCA1.