Cisneros Lab Members

ircisner@utmb.edu

The overarching goal of the Cisneros Lab is to understand the mechanisms dictating interactions between the immune system and nervous system during substance use disorders and neuroinfectious diseases. Increasing evidence demonstrates that the immune system plays a critical role in both normal and pathological processes in the central nervous system. A particular interest is on immunocompetent cells of the CNS, including astrocytes and microglia, and their innate immune responses, both inflammatory and antiviral during substance use disorders and CNS viral infections. Using in vivo, ex vivo and in vitro models, we focus on neuroimmune interactions in addiction and viral-mediated neurodegeneration.

chfongsa@utmb.edu

nlhausse@utmb.edu

Pathology Department
MS in Medical Entomology from Texas A&M University (TAMU)
BS in Biomedical Science, also from TAMU

Human Pathophysiology and Translational Medicine PhD student.

mlortiz@utmb.edu

I was raised in Tijuana, Mexico, where I attended Medical School at Xochicalco University. I did my medical internship and clinical rotations at the Tijuana General Hospital, where I solidified my theoretical knowledge with complete hands-on training. I completed my medical training with a year of social service in the Mexicali Valley; as a Lead Physician, I provided primary medical care to four rural communities with 3,000+ patients. During that time, I had the opportunity to witness many medical needs and gaps in treatment which is why after earning my M.D., I decided to join the research world to diversify my medical knowledge and acquire new skills. I’m proud to be part of this wonderful UTMB team and contribute to the diversity of culture and backgrounds that characterize this institution.

 I enjoy swimming, paddle boarding, and having movie nights with my family during my free time.

Research Associate I

mcweiser@utmb.edu

I studied Genetics for my Bachelor's and Biomedical Sciences for my Master's at Iowa State University, and completed my Master's thesis on the relationship between trauma, depression risk, and changes to the epigenome.