Dear Readers,

Living human brain tissue in a Petrie dish?

Sounds like science fiction, but this incredible resource is firmly grounded in reality at the Medical College of Georgia. The cover story in this edition of MCG Today illuminates the boundless potential for better treatments—and possibly even cures—of neurological diseases, thanks to the research made possible by MCG’s Human Brain Lab, one of a very few labs of its kind worldwide.

MCG also is on the forefront of other pressing health concerns, including its participation in testing vaccines for the human papillomavirus, the most common sexually transmitted infection in the country and the major cause of cervical cancer. Read about these and many other initiatives in this edition of the magazine.

We also invite you to meet one of our most inspiring alumni—Dr. Van Cise Knowles, whose commitment to volunteerism has yielded an outstanding hospital and medical school in one of the most impoverished areas of India. He recounts that his efforts through the years often seemed overwhelming, at times almost undoable. Yet he forged ahead, determined that if his medical skills could help his fellow man, he would find a way to make it happen.

Dr. Knowles is but one of many MCG alumni committed to altruism and excellence in their careers. Each of their stories is distinct, yet utterly inspiring. If you haven’t caught up with them recently, why not touch base by attending Homecoming this spring? You’ll find a schedule of activities inside. Springtime in Augusta is an unparalleled pleasure, and your presence will make it that much nicer. See you at Homecoming!

–Editor