Ignacio Provencio

Ignacio Provencio is a Professor of Biology at the University of Virginia. His research focuses on melanopsin-based photoreception and its role in non-visual light responses, including circadian rhythm regulation, fear modulation, and glaucoma pathophysiology. His lab investigates melanopsin signaling pathways and their broader implications for vertebrate physiology.

Education:

• B.A., Swarthmore College, 1987
• Ph.D., University of Virginia, 1996
• Postdoctoral Research, Uniformed Services University, 1996–1999

Key research interests include:

• Melanopsin phototransduction mechanisms
• Role of intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) in non-image-forming vision
• Impact of light on circadian rhythms and neurodegenerative diseases like glaucoma
• Light’s influence on fear behavior and weight regulation

Recent work highlights:

• ipRGC survival in glaucoma models
• Melanopsin’s role in weight loss under dietary challenges
• Clinical applications of melanopsin-based light therapy

His research spans in vivo and in vitro studies, integrating molecular, cellular, and behavioral approaches to understand light’s multifaceted effects on physiology.