Stefan Strack

Stefan Strack is a Professor of Neuroscience and Pharmacology and holds the John Paul Long Professorship in Pharmacology at the University of Iowa. He serves as Vice Chair of the Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology. His research focuses on neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders caused by mutations in signaling proteins like PP2A and PKA, with emphasis on Jordan’s Syndrome, Marbach-Schaaf Neurodevelopmental Syndrome, and Ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay. His lab uses mouse models, in vitro systems, and computational approaches to study disease mechanisms and potential therapies.

Education:

• MS in Computer Science, State University of New York at Albany
• PhD in Biology, State University of New York at Albany
• Fellowships: DAAD Exchange Program, Deutsche Studienstiftung, SUNY Albany Teaching Fellowship

Research Interests:

His work integrates molecular, biochemical, and behavioral studies to address mitochondrial dynamics, protein phosphatase regulation, and cognitive impairment in neurological disorders. Key projects include developing phosphodiesterase inhibitors for neurodegenerative diseases and investigating PP2A regulation via KLHL15.

Publications:

Recent work highlights mitochondrial fission’s role in cognitive deficits, PKA phase separation in neurological disorders, and PP2A structural-allostery in Jordan’s Syndrome. These studies bridge basic science and translational medicine, emphasizing protein dysfunction and therapeutic targets.

Awards & Affiliations:

• Cardiovascular Research Center
• Fraternal Order of Eagles Diabetes Research Center
• Iowa Neuroscience Institute
• Recipient of DAAD and Deutsche Studienstiftung fellowships

Labs & Teams:

The Strack Lab collaborates across disciplines, employing mouse models for behavioral and histopathological analysis, and cell culture systems to study disease-mutant proteins. Their work is supported by NIH grants and industry partnerships.