AADR Strides in Science

Robert Spears, M.S., Ph.D., is a professor in the Department of Biomedical Sciences, and director of curriculum and director of student research at the Texas A&M University Baylor College of Dentistry. He received his B.S. in biology and M.S. in anatomy from Texas A&M University, and his Ph.D. in biomedical sciences from Texas A&M System Health Science Center. 

His has focused his research efforts toward the elucidation of signal transduction mechanisms during inflammatory joint diseases using an animal model of adjuvant-induced inflammation of the temporomandibular joint. Of particular interest is the role that different inflammatory mediators may play in the process, with emphasis upon the interaction between elements of the immune and nervous system. His research efforts have evolved around the examination of the involvement of proinflammatory cytokines, and recently the potential involvement of the sympathetic nervous system in chronic pain.