George Thomas

Thanks for stopping by to learn a little about me and my research. I came to the University of Kansas in 2004 as a medical student. I became seriously interested in research while working with the KU Brain Aging Program during the summer of 2005. During the next several months I had the opportunity to learn more about the many research programs here at KU while serving as co-chair of the Student Research Forum. I applied to the program during my second year of medical school, and am currently working in the department of neurology investigating how insulin modulates memory circuits in Alzheimer's disease.

The MD-PhD program here at KU offers students a lot of flexibility and choice in their studies, as well as the institutional support to perform at their best. I found these qualities very attractive and they have allowed me the freedom to pursue my research goals. Above all, the people here at KU make a great program really excellent! I am delighted to have the opportunity to study here.

My research program focuses on brain insulin in early Alzheimer’s disease.   Insulin is important in brain health.  Insulin, along with IGF-1, is known to possess neurotrophic and neuroprotective properties.  Insulin signaling in the brain is associated with oxidative metabolism and long-term potentiation.  

Cognitive impairment is a feature of type 2 diabetes, and Alzheimer’s patients frequently exhibit peripheral insulin resistance, suggesting that brain insulin plays a role in memory, and that brain insulin resistance may be a part of Alzheimer neuropathology.   Exogenous insulin has been shown to improve memory performance in Alzheimer’s patients supporting this idea, but the structures mediating this effect are unknown. 

I am currently using functional MRI to study the neuroanatomic correlates of memory in Alzheimer’s disease, and how insulin influences activity in these regions.  Understanding how insulin contributes to brain health may lead to new strategies and treatments for Alzheimer’s disease.

I grew up in, moved away from, and came back to Blue Springs, Missouri, and took a round about way to get over the state line into Kansas. I have a BS degree from Park College as well as a DC from Cleveland College in Missouri. I am also a Diplomate of the American Chiropractic Board of Radiology. Prior to coming to the University of Kansas, I taught bone pathology and radiographic anatomy at the University of Bridgeport. I also have taught radiation and MRI physics, as well as cardiovascular diagnosis and pathology.

My wife, Dawn, and I have a young daughter Zoe, who seems to enjoy our attention - OK, we have little choice, she keeps us busy. Dawn is the custodian of her family's records kept in the Rauner Library at Dartmouth College, and has compiled a significant amount of genealogic data about her ancestors. We like to spend our free time on Nantucket and camping in the White Mountains of New Hampshire.

I would be happy to answer any questions you may have about the MD-PhD program at KU, or about my research program.