Vision

To establish a globally recognized neuroscience research center, advancing the understanding of neural processes and pioneering innovations to improve brain and nervous system health at both individual and community levels.

Mission

• Advancing Scientific Research – Conducting cutting-edge studies on neural functions and neurological disorders using state-of-the-art techniques.
• Developing Innovative Treatments – Creating effective therapeutic and diagnostic solutions for neurological diseases, including Alzheimer’s, epilepsy, Parkinson’s, and strokes.
• Fostering Collaboration – Establishing strategic partnerships with universities, research centers, and healthcare institutions to accelerate scientific progress.
• Education & Training – Preparing the next generation of neuroscientists through comprehensive educational programs and hands-on research opportunities.
• Interdisciplinary Research – Exploring the interconnections between neural, stem, and cancer cells to drive groundbreaking discoveries.

The laboratory aims to make a significant impact locally and globally by contributing to scientific advancements and therapeutic innovations in neuroscience.

• Understanding Nervous System Functions – Investigating how various compounds influence neurotransmitter receptors, shaping neural circuits during brain development.
• Exploring Neurological Disease Mechanisms – Studying electrical currents generated by neurotransmitter receptor stimulation to develop new therapeutic strategies.
• Advancing Research Techniques – Utilizing brain slices from mice, applying specialized staining methods, and analyzing neural cell properties.
• Integrating Multiple Disciplines – Fostering a dynamic research environment that combines neuroscience, cancer biology, and stem cell studies to drive novel scientific breakthroughs.

The Neuroscience Research Laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art instruments and specialized facilities, supporting advanced research in neurobiology and neurological disorders.

Key Research Equipment

• Patch Clamp Rig – Records neural electrical signals with high precision.
• IX73 Olympus Inverted Microscope (with Air Tables & Faraday Cages) – Ensures stable, interference-free imaging for biological and medical research.
• Flaming/Brown Micropipette Puller – Manufactures micropipettes and microinjection needles for electrophysiological studies.
• IPA Integrated Patch Amplifier – Captures and transmits neural signals in electrophysiology experiments.
• Motorized Micromanipulator – Allows high-precision control of micropipette positioning in three dimensions (X, Y, and Z axes).

Neurosurgical Techniques

• SZ51 Olympus Stereo-Microscope – Enables 3D specimen analysis, including the examination of neural cells from the dorsal root ganglia and hippocampus.
• Vibratome 5100 mz – A precision instrument for slicing brain and spinal cord tissues with a 250µm precision level, ensuring high-quality samples for research.

Cell Culture Equipment

• CO₂ Incubator – Maintains optimal cell culture conditions for neural and cancer research.
• Laminar Flow Cabinet – Ensures a sterile work environment, preventing contamination.

General Research Instruments

• Centrifuges – Separate materials based on density via high-speed rotation.
• Analytical Balances – Provide high-precision measurements for chemical solutions and biological samples.
• Water Baths – Maintain stable temperatures for controlled experimental conditions.
• pH Meters – Measure the acidity or alkalinity of solutions with high accuracy.
• Laboratory Freezers & Refrigerators – Store biological samples at controlled temperatures for long-term research.

Student Graduation Projects

1. Novel insights into the pharmacology and regulation of AMPA receptors by TARP auxiliary subunits
2. Effect of Novel compounds derivatives on different cancer cell line and neurological protective
3. Neuromodulator Efficacy of different essential oils
4. Anticancer, neuroprotective effect of BMSJ drug derivatives
5. Pumpkin, Nettle, Black seed oils phytochemical composition, antioxidant, anticancer and neuroprotective effects,
6. Mustard, Garden cress, Cinnamon Oils from Palestine: Chemical Composition and Neuroprotective, and Cyclooxygenase Inhibitory Activities

Researchers’ Projects

1. Isoxazole-Carboxamide Compounds as Modulators of GluA2-Containing AMPA Receptors in Parkinson’s Disease
2. Regulating AMPA Receptors with Isoxazole-4-Carboxamide Derivatives for Chronic Inflammatory Pain
3. Bioactive Potential of Artemisia Judaica, Ruta graveolens, and Salvia Palestine Essential Oils
4. Antioxidant and Neuromodulator Efficacy of Fixed Seed Oils: Evaluating Nigella sativa, Cucurbita pepo, and Sinapi’s alba in Combination and Alone
5. A Tripartite Investigation into the Bioactivity of Artemisia Judaica, Portulaca oleracea, and Terminalia chebulic Across Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, and Neuropharmacological Realms

• Local Collaboration: Working with Dr. Adel Al-Hidmi (Birzeit University) to enhance scientific exchange within Palestine.
• International Partnerships:
  • Dr. Christoph Fahlke (Jülich Research Center, Germany) – Supporting research experience and technical skill development.
  • Turkish Universities – Collaborating in molecular docking and chemical research applications.
  • Assistant Professor Irfan Çapan (Turkey) & Dr. Paulina Domińczak (Poland) – Partnering in neuropharmacological studies.

The Neuroscience Research Laboratory provides students and researchers with hands-on training in:

• Neuronal & Cancer Cell Cultivation
• Advanced Research Techniques
• Neural Cell Extraction from Mice

Training is offered through An-Najah Innovation Park (INNOPARK) and the Continuing Education Center at An-Najah National University.

Location: Faculty of Medicine and Allied MedicalSciences (Building 17), Ground Floor, Room G0090, An-Najah National University

Email: [email protected]