Kristin Ackerman

Kristin Ackerman, PhD, is an Assistant Professor of Dental Medicine (Integrated and Applied Biomedical Sciences), Assistant Dean for Inquiry, and Chief Discovery Officer at High Point University. She holds a B.S. in Biology from Ohio Northern University and a Ph.D. in Integrated Biomedical Sciences and Neuroscience from The Ohio State University, followed by a Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Regenerative Medicine. Her research focuses on neural development using zebrafish models, addressing neurotransmitter systems like glycine and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. Key projects include investigating nicotine’s effects on fetal development, retinal cell differentiation, and regenerative mechanisms for photoreceptor restoration.

Dr. Ackerman’s laboratory explores three main areas: (1) nicotine-induced spinal cord developmental defects via chrna2/chrna4/chrna6 genes, (2) chrna6’s role in nicotine-induced retinal abnormalities, and (3) taurine-mediated rod photoreceptor differentiation through glycine receptors. Techniques employed include PCR, in situ hybridization, and morpholino-mediated gene knockdown.

She emphasizes student mentorship and innovative approaches in higher education, aligning with High Point University’s student-first ethos. Her work bridges basic science and clinical implications, targeting neurodevelopmental disorders and vision restoration.