Rate My Professor Kaylene Young

Her research program investigates glial biology, focusing on oligodendrocyte progenitor cells, oligodendrogenesis, myelination, remyelination, synaptic plasticity, and their roles in demyelinating diseases such as multiple sclerosis, neurodegeneration, and brain repair. Key studies explore how genetics influence blood vessel cells in MS, using stem cell-derived pericytes and endothelial cells to identify therapeutic targets for improving blood flow, reducing inflammation, and supporting remyelination. Notable publications include 'Oligodendrogenesis and myelination regulate cortical development, plasticity and circuit function' (2021), 'Periaxonal and nodal plasticities modulate action potential conduction in the adult mouse brain' (2021), 'Kif3a deletion prevents primary cilia assembly on oligodendrocyte progenitor cells, reduces oligodendrogenesis and impairs fine motor function' (2020), 'Cell cycle dynamics of NG2 cells in the postnatal and ageing brain' (2009, cited 328 times), and 'NG2-glia as multipotent neural stem cells: Fact or fantasy?' (2011, cited 371 times). Professor Young has received awards including the 2014 Metcalf Prize from the National Stem Cell Foundation of Australia and selection as a mentee in the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences Mentorship Program. Her work has secured significant funding, such as contributions to a $10 million MS research legacy and a $397,626 grant for MS studies, with leadership in initiatives like a proposed $3 million Centre of Research Excellence for MS.