

Prof. Daniel Offen
Prof. Daniel Offen is an expert in molecular and cellular neuroscience whose work has elucidated fundamental mechanisms of neuronal degeneration. He identified how oxidative stress and apoptosis drive neuronal loss and uncovered key neuroprotective proteins that serve as novel therapeutic targets to preserve neuronal function.
Prof. Offen has been at the forefront of applying mesenchymal stem cells and stem-cell-derived exosomes in preclinical models, demonstrating their capacity to replace damaged neurons, attenuate neuroinflammation, and restore motor function. His laboratory also investigates the impact of these interventions on cognition, behavior, and disease-related biochemical and histological markers in both cell cultures and animal models.
Recognizing that blood-brain barrier permeability remains a major obstacle in CNS therapy, Prof. Offen has pioneered innovative strategies such as drug- and protein-loaded exosomes and bone marrow transplantation of genetically engineered cells to improve therapeutic delivery.
He has authored over 200 peer-reviewed publications (18,000+ citations; h-index 73) and holds multiple patents. His scientific innovations have seeded biotechnology companies and accelerated the translation of his discoveries into clinical therapies aimed at protecting and regenerating brain cells affected by neurodegenerative diseases.
Gray School of Medical Sciences
- Neuroscience and Brain Disorders
- Cell, Developmental and Regenerative Biology
