Aaron Norris, MD, PhD

Aaron Norris, MD, PhD

Assistant Professor, WashU Anesthesiology

Neural pathways dysfunction in neurologic conditions

My research program focused on understanding the overlapping neural circuitry and pathways regulating sleep, sedation, affect, respiration, temperature and arousal. I have a long-term interest in the connections between sleep disturbances, stress related disorders, psychiatric conditions, and neurogenerative process.  A second avenue of investigation is the regulation of body temperature and how these neural circuits may also regulate sleep.  Opiates alter many of these processes, particularly respiratory drive. We are also exploring how respiration, sleep, and temperature are altered by both clinically and illicitly use drugs. This research program focused of how neural pathways dysfunction in neurologic conditions including neurodegenerative diseases is well aligned with the mission of the Hope Center.

More about the Norris lab