Folami Powell

Folami Powell is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the Medical College of Georgia (MCG), where she also serves as Campus Assistant Dean for Pre-Clerkship. Her academic appointment is within one of the core basic science departments at MCG, reflecting her strong foundation in biomedical research and medical education.

Research Interests: Dr. Powell's research is centered on understanding the molecular and metabolic mechanisms underlying retinal neurodegenerative diseases. Her work particularly explores retinal energy homeostasis, insulin biosynthesis in the retina, and the impact of systemic diseases like diabetes and sickle cell anemia on vision. She investigates novel therapeutic strategies, including GLP-1 secretagogues and anti-inflammatory agents like Crizanlizumab, to protect against retinal degeneration.

Recent Research Trends: Analysis of her recent publications (2022–2023) reveals a focused trajectory on the retina as a neuroendocrine and metabolically active tissue. Her studies bridge pharmacology, biochemistry, and ophthalmology, emphasizing the role of metabolic substrates (e.g., beta-hydroxybutyrate), insulin signaling, and inflammatory mediators in retinal health and disease. Much of her recent output is presented as conference proceedings, indicating active dissemination within specialized scientific communities such as ARVO (Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology).

Scientific Awards:

• Student National Medical Association Newsletter-Faculty Feature (2021)
• MCG Exemplary Teaching Award AY2019/20 (2021)
• Genentech Career Development Mentorship, ARVO Foundation for Eye Research/Genentech (2020)

Teaching and Academic Leadership: Dr. Powell is deeply involved in medical education, teaching multiple foundational courses including MEDI 6220 (Cardiopulmonary/Heme), MEDI 6300 (Career Paths in Medicine), ANAT 5005 (Clinical Anatomy & Teaching Skills), and various modules in the medical curriculum such as GI/GU/Endocrine, Musculoskeletal/Skin, and Orientation to Medicine. Her role as Pre-Clerkship Assistant Dean highlights her leadership in shaping early medical education. While no formal advisees are listed, her mentorship is recognized through awards. There is no mention of external research grants in the provided text.

Laboratories and Research Teams: While the specific lab or research team name is not mentioned in the text, her research output suggests she leads or is a key member of a research group focused on retinal biology and neuropharmacology at the Medical College of Georgia. Her work likely involves collaborations with vision scientists, pharmacologists, and clinicians, particularly in the context of diabetic and sickle cell retinopathies.