We study how the spinal cord creates movement — and how to give it back.
At Stecina Lab, we bridge the gap between neuroscientific discovery and clinical reality through precise observation and compassionate research.
Fig 0.1 — Imaging of synaptic integration (detail)
Losing movement is one of the most human experiences.
Movement is a continuous conversation. Every step is an intricate dialogue between the brain and the muscles, mediated by the spinal cord.
When injury occurs, that conversation is interrupted. Our mission is to listen to the whispers that remain and rebuild the neural language of walking.
The Science of Reconnection
How movement is made
We decode the rhythm and timing of locomotion. By understanding the spinal cord's intrinsic pace, we can better mimic the natural flow of movement.
Chemical & Electrical Coordination
Exploring the roles of serotonin and neural coordination. We study the signals that maintain the sync between thought and action.
Reawakening Recovery
Movement as medicine. We use targeted stimulation and training protocols to reawaken the latent capacity for recovery within the nervous system.
"The hardest part isn't discovery.
It's translation."
Bridging the gap between a laboratory finding and a patient's recovery is our obsession. Every protocol we develop is designed with the clinical floor in mind.
Katinka Stecina, PhD
Associate Professor | Spinal Cord Research Centre
"The spinal cord is not just a relay; it is a sophisticated processor with a latent capacity for movement that we can reawaken."
Serious science.
Human lab.
We value intellectual rigor, but we also value the people behind the science. We foster a supportive environment where we celebrate our breakthroughs and our humanity. There is always cake.
