WEATHER ALERT for January 25 & 26:
Important Information regarding Thomas Jefferson University for Sunday 1/25 and Monday 1/26 due to expected storm.
Read More [1/23/26 4 p.m.]
Diana R. Cundell, PhD
Professor, Biology Program
Associate Director, Pre-Medical Studies Program
Clinical Coordinator
Contact Information
Search Hall, Room 320
3223 West School House Lane
Philadelphia, PA 19144
215-951-2664
215-951-2664 fax
Professor, Biology Program
Associate Director, Pre-Medical Studies Program
Clinical Coordinator
Research and Clinical Interests
Currently I pursue two major lines of research both of which revolve around the usage of herbal phytochemicals to manage illness and kill microorganisms. The first is a collaborative venture, which has resulted in three patents, to generate novel, biocidal fabrics with various modalities ranging from hospital textiles, mold removal in libraries/ other areas with humidity issues. Working with Adam Greenspan this is now being extended from artificial and natural textiles to include hemp and will be submitted to the JazTank Cannavation. The second involves reviews (book chapter and editorials) to examine the current and developing knowledge on the role of phytochemicals as complementary therapies in a variety of chronic inflammatory diseases. This has culminated in a book invitation on the active chemical in garlic (Allicin), which is currently being produced and will be published by Nova in June 2019.
Education
PhD, Medicine - British Postgraduate Medical Federation, University of London, London, UK - 1993
BSc - Immunology and Microbiology (Summa Cum Laude), University of London, London, UK - 1981
Publications
- Herbal medicines that improve anxiety, and sleep: Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha)
- Managing anxiety and insomnia: Historical perspectives and current approaches as we emerge from COVID-19
- Neuroanatomy, physiology and biochemistry relating to anxiety and depression
- Future directions in herbal medicine for mental health
- Herbal medicines that improve anxiety, and enable sleep: Lavandula sp. (Lavender) and Rhodiola rosea (Golden Root)
Awards
2016 – Journal Article “Phytochemicals as Immunomodulators”, published in “Current Immunology Reviews”, volume 10, issue 2, was selected by the Editor-in-Chief “Cecil Czerkinsky” as Editor’s Choice and promoted through a press release at EurekAlert platform.
2014 - Honorary Initiate into Alpha Lambda Delta
2009 – Who’s Who in American Collegiate Faculty
2009 – Organization Advisor of the Year for the Asclepius (Pre-Med) Society (award by Philadelphia University Student Government)
2008 – First Prize in the NTC Fabrication Category for the research project entitled "Development of Environmental Wall for Fabric and Breathing Systems" with Drs. Alex Messinger, Robert Fleming and Brian George. Presentation at the NTC National Conference on June 2nd 2008.
2007 – President’s Award for Teaching Excellence (Philadelphia University)
2005 – Organization Advisor of the Year for the Asclepius (Pre-Med) Society (Philadelphia University SGU)
Published Patent Holdings
- US 2011-0229542-A1 Messenger A., Cundell D. and George B. (2010) Methods for imparting antimicrobial, microbicidal properties to fabrics, yarns and filaments, and fabrics yarns and filaments embodying such properties. Patient Buddy
- US 2011-0236448-A1 Messenger A., Cundell D. and George B. (2010) Methods and apparatus for passive reduction of nosocomial infections in clinical settings and fabrics, yarns and filaments for use in connection therewith.
- US 2011-0201265 A1 Messenger A., Cundell D. and George B., (2010) Methods and Apparatus for combating sick building syndrome. Patient Buddy.