Congratulations to Sejiro Littleton, PhD, who on April 1, 2025, successfully defended his dissertation, "The Cornea Harbors a Tricellular Neuro-Immune Niche that Underpins Touch Sensation.” His research explored the intricate relationship between the nervous and immune systems in the eye.
Littleton conducted research in the lab of Daniel Saban, MD, professor of ophthalmology and professor in integrative immunobiology. “It has been an honor to work with Dr. Saban at the Duke Eye Center,” Littleton said. “It has been fascinating to learn about the eye, and the complexity in organization and coordination of the nervous system and immune system in coordinating physiology.”
This experience has solidified his passion for neuroimmunology, which he plans to continue studying in his future career. Post-graduation, Littleton is actively searching for postdoctoral positions to further his research in neuroimmunology.
He also shared his appreciation for the Liberty Arts community, a non-profit arts space in Durham. A highlight was participating in the Annual Iron Pours in Durham Central Park, he said.