Meet Research Grant Recipient: Sungha Hong, PhD

Dr. Sungha Hong is the recipient of the Shirley Dudek Demmer and Kati Lorge Chair of Research for $40,000.

BAF: Please tell us your background, where you are from, schooling, etc.

SH: I was born and grew up in South Korea. Since 2006, I have been dedicated to studying the treatment of subarachnoid hemorrhage and stroke. I received a Ph.D. degree from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center at New Orleans. Currently, I am a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Department of Neurosurgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center. My current project investigates the regulation of microthrombi and blood flow after SAH in aged animals using my expertise in real-time blood flow and vessel imaging in the brain.

BAF: What led you to become involved with brain aneurysm research?

SH: I have observed the loss of blood flow over the whole brain after SAH using our Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging system. After searching for references, I noticed that the loss of blood flow in the whole brain could contribute to a poor outcome in acute SAH. Early restoration of blood flow may be a therapeutic target for SAH. It makes me dedicated to developing new treatments to improve brain blood flow after aneurysmal SAH.

BAF: In the simplest terms, what is the purpose of your project?

SH: The purpose of this project is to develop an endovascular device aimed at improving the treatment of brain aneurysms. The proposed device aims to maximize the effectiveness of aneurysm treatment in both the short and long term.

BAF: In the simplest terms, what do you hope will change through your research findings?

SH: Through my research findings, I aim to bring about positive changes in patient outcomes, specifically focusing on improving treatments for brain aneurysms and potentially reducing their reoccurrence.

BAF: Why is the funding you are receiving through the Brain Aneurysm Foundation so important?

SH: The funding we are receiving through the Brain Aneurysm Foundation is essential as it allows us to conduct vital research, optimize prototypes, and accelerate progress toward advancements in brain aneurysm treatment. Without this support, achieving significant breakthroughs would be much more challenging. We are deeply grateful for BAF’s support in improving the lives of those affected by brain aneurysms.

Pictured above is Dr. Hong’s research poster, Role of TRPV1 in Rescuing Global Ischemia Following SAH in Aged Mice”