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Edward BlumenthalView profile

Associate Professor

• Drosophila melanogaster biology
• Epithelial development and function
• Neurodegeneration
• +3 more

Dr. Edward Blumenthal , an Associate Professor at Marquette University's Department of Biological Sciences, investigates Drosophila melanogaster epithelial development and function. His research combines genetic, molecular, and physiological approaches to study the drop-dead gene's role in adult viability and tyramine signaling in Malpighian tubules. Key Research Areas: Epithelial barrier formation, neurodegeneration, and insect renal physiology Methodologies: Genetic mutation analysis, cell-cell communication studies, and osmoregulation research His laboratory's recent publications show focus on drop-dead 's multifaceted roles in gut motility, eggshell formation, and respiratory system integrity. Tyramine signaling pathways in Malpighian tubules constitute a major research theme. Scientific Honors: Senior Research Fellowship, KU Leuven (2011-2012) Advising: Actively mentoring both graduate and undergraduate researchers, Dr. Blumenthal has advised over 25 students since 2004, including PhD candidates and technicians. His trainees have presented at major conferences like the Annual Drosophila Research Conference. Grant Funding: NSF IOS-1355087 (2014-2019): Epithelial barrier formation NSF DBI-1156569 (2012-2015): Undergraduate research training NSF IOS-0744619 (2008-2013): Tyramine signaling NIGMS R15-GM080682 (2007-2010): Feeding and digestion genetics NIDDK R21-DK080680 (2001-2003): Osmoregulation research

Sukanya LodhView profile

Associate Professor

• Cell Biology
• Developmental Biology
• Cilia Biology
• +3 more

Dr. Sukanya Lodh serves as a Teaching Associate Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Marquette University, where she teaches General Biology 2, Principles of Biological Investigations (as lead instructor), Cell Biology, Microbiology, and Developmental Biology. Her academic journey includes a B.S. from Lady Brabourne College (Calcutta University), an M.Sc. from Calcutta University, a Ph.D. from the University of Vermont, and postdoctoral training at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. Prior to her current position, she worked as a Scientist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine. Dr. Lodh's research centers on ciliopathies as models for understanding common diseases, with emphasis on primary cilia's role in pancreatic β-cell development and regeneration. Her work explores critical connections between ciliary dysfunction and metabolic disorders including diabetes, obesity, and cystic kidney disease, bridging fundamental cell biology with translational medical applications. Her publication record demonstrates consistent focus on cilia-related mechanisms in disease models, particularly using zebrafish and mammalian systems to investigate Bardet-Biedl Syndrome and Alstrom Syndrome. This research trajectory reveals evolving specialization from basic ciliary physiology toward metabolic disease pathways.

• Neuropharmacology
• Medicinal Chemistry
• Neurodegeneration
• +7 more

Werner Geldenhuys, PhD, is Professor and Associate Chair in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the West Virginia University (WVU) School of Pharmacy, holder of the Douglas Glover Endowed Chair, and joint Professor in the WVU School of Medicine’s Department of Neuroscience and Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute. He is also a faculty member of the WVU Cancer Institute. Education: Bachelor of Pharmacy, Potchefstroom University (now North-West University), South Africa, 1999 Master of Science in Medicinal Chemistry, North-West University, 2002 Doctor of Philosophy in Medicinal Chemistry/Neuroscience, North-West University, 2004 Post-doctoral research, Texas Tech School of Pharmacy Research Interests: Dr Geldenhuys leads a translational program that integrates medicinal chemistry, mitochondrial biology and nanomedicine to discover neuroprotective agents. A central focus is the mitochondrial outer-membrane protein mitoNEET (CISD1), which his group has validated as a druggable target for Parkinson’s disease using small organic molecules, peptide therapeutics and nanoparticle delivery systems. Additional programs explore blood-brain-barrier transport mechanisms, lipoprotein-lipase modulation for cardiometabolic disorders, and novel kinase activators discovered by high-content zebrafish screening. Publication Profile: With >170 peer-reviewed articles since 2003, his recent work demonstrates sustained productivity in three converging areas: (i) mechanistic elucidation of mitoNEET-driven mitochondrial dysfunction in Parkinsonian models, (ii) design and in vivo validation of nanoparticle formulations that ferry neurotherapeutics across the blood-brain barrier, and (iii) structure–activity driven optimization of small molecules targeting oxidative stress, TRPC channels and lipoprotein lipase for neurodegeneration, arthritis and cardiovascular disease. Honours & Awards: Douglas Glover Endowed Chair, West Virginia University School of Pharmacy Grants, Students & Teams: Dr Geldenhuys has continuously served as Principal Investigator on NIH R01 and R21 awards, NSF grants, and foundation grants focusing on mitochondrial drug targets and CNS delivery. He mentors graduate students and post-doctoral fellows in the Pharmaceutical Sciences and Neuroscience PhD programs, directing an active laboratory within the WVU Biomedical Research Center (BMRC).

• Diabetes Research
• Pancreatic Islet Biology
• Beta Cell Function
• +3 more

Dr. Scott Anderson is a Research Fellow at Newcastle University specializing in pancreatic islet biology and diabetes research. As a core member of Professor James Shaw's research group, he contributes to translational studies focused on beta cell dysfunction and islet transplantation optimization. His collaborative work spans molecular mechanisms to clinical applications within Newcastle's medical research ecosystem. Research interests center on beta cell dedifferentiation pathways, transcriptional regulation of islet cell identity (particularly TLE1/TLE3 mechanisms), and strategies to mitigate hypoxia in transplanted islets. His work investigates how mitochondrial dysfunction affects alpha cells, how pseudoislet aggregation enhances insulin secretion, and the role of exocrine contamination in graft inflammation. This multi-faceted approach addresses fundamental questions in diabetes pathogenesis while developing practical solutions for cell-based therapies. Analysis of Dr. Anderson's 10 publications (2015-2022) reveals a cohesive research trajectory from basic mechanisms of beta cell failure to translational applications. His work demonstrates increasing sophistication in cellular models and clinical correlations, with recent studies (2022) focusing on mitochondrial complex I deficiency and advanced pseudoislet technologies. The consistent publication output across high-impact diabetes journals indicates sustained research activity and growing expertise in islet biology. Dr. Anderson maintains active collaborations within Newcastle University's diabetes research community, particularly with Professor James Shaw's group. His research program bridges laboratory investigations with clinical islet transplantation challenges, focusing on improving graft survival through understanding cellular stress responses and developing innovative culture techniques. While specific grant details aren't provided, his publication record suggests involvement in research programs addressing critical barriers in diabetes cell therapy.

Katja EsterView profile

Researcher

• Cancer Research
• Molecular Biology
• Biochemistry
• +3 more

Katja Ester serves as Senior Research Associate at Ruđer Bošković Institute's Division of Molecular Medicine, Laboratory of Experimental Therapy in Zagreb, Croatia, and concurrently holds a Biology Professor position at ALU Zagreb. Her academic qualifications include: B.Sc. in Molecular Biology from University of Zagreb (1992-1998) Ph.D. in Biology from University of Zagreb Graduate School (2000-2006) Dr. Ester's research centers on molecular oncology with emphasis on antitumor compound mechanisms. Her work explores crown ethers, quinone methides, and viral proteins (particularly apoptin) to disrupt cancer cell membranes, ion homeostasis, and mitochondrial functions. She investigates multidrug resistance reversal in breast cancer models, with special focus on cancer stem cells and bioelectrical properties. Current projects integrate machine learning for antimalarial/anticancer drug design while examining TLR-mediated immunomodulation. Analysis of her 15 most recent publications reveals consistent investigation of membrane-targeting therapeutics, with growing integration of computational methods and immunological approaches. Her work spans cancer pharmacology, molecular biophysics, and virology, maintaining strong translational focus on overcoming treatment resistance. Her scientific achievements include: Best Poster Award at Third Croatian Congress of Pharmacology (2001) FEMS award for Workshop on Marek's disease pathogenesis (2002) Dr. Ester actively mentors graduate students in cancer biology research, supervising theses on apoptin mechanisms, crown ether effects, and breast cancer stem cell models. She participates in COST actions and EACR networks, securing collaborative funding for projects targeting P-glycoprotein-mediated resistance and ion channel modulation in tumors. Within the Laboratory of Experimental Therapy, she leads research on bioelectrical properties of cancer cells, investigating membrane potential dynamics and ion flux alterations in epithelial-mesenchymal transition models, with particular emphasis on triple-negative breast cancer pathophysiology.

Charles BourqueView profile

Professor

• Neuroscience
• Neuroendocrinology
• Osmoregulation
• +5 more

Charles Bourque is a Professor in the Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery at McGill University's Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, and a Senior Scientist at the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (RI-MUHC). He holds the James McGill Chair in Neurobiology of Hydration and is affiliated with the Brain Repair and Integrative Neuroscience (BRaIN) Program and Centre for Translational Biology at the RI-MUHC. Dr. Bourque obtained his Certificate in Biophysics from the Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole (1984) and his Ph.D. in Physiology from McGill University (1985). Following post-doctoral training in Pharmacology at University College London, he joined McGill University's Centre for Research in Neuroscience. His research focuses on how the brain monitors and regulates body hydration, blood sodium levels, and core temperature. His laboratory investigates the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which networks of thermosensitive and osmosensitive neurons communicate with the central clock and other brain cells to preserve homeostasis. The team studies how these mechanisms control thirst perception and vasopressin secretion, with particular relevance to clinical conditions including dehydration, heart failure, MDMA toxicity, traumatic brain injury, and hypertension. Analysis of Dr. Bourque's recent publications reveals a strong focus on osmoregulation, thermosensation, and circadian control of fluid balance. His work increasingly examines the role of ion channels (particularly TRP channels), glial-neuronal interactions, and sex-specific differences in neural regulation of body fluid homeostasis. Recent studies also investigate the impact of high dietary salt on neuronal function and the neural basis of drug-induced hyponatremia. Dr. Bourque has received numerous prestigious honors including: Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada (2016) Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences (2019) Joseph Erlanger Distinguished Lecturer Award from the American Physiological Society President of the Canadian Association for Neuroscience (2020-2021) He has also received the Jacques Benoit Lectureship, Stevenson Lectureship, Distinguished Lectureship from the University of Saskatchewan, and the Mortyn Jones Memorial Lecture & Medal. Dr. Bourque mentors several graduate students and postdoctoral fellows including Anzala Murtaz (Ph.D. student studying traumatic brain injury and circadian rhythms), Joshua Wyrosdic (Ph.D. student examining effects of MDMA on hypothalamic neurons), Julie O'Reilly (Ph.D. student investigating lateral head impact on vasopressin neurons), and Mary Lapierre (CIHR Banting Postdoctoral Fellow studying central osmosensing and homeostasis). The Bourque Lab operates within the Centre for Research in Neuroscience at the RI-MUHC, utilizing advanced techniques including electrophysiology, pharmacology, biophysics, patch-clamp, optogenetics, and various imaging methods to study neural mechanisms of osmoregulation and thermosensation. The lab's work bridges basic neuroscience with clinical applications related to fluid balance disorders.

Christos GatsogiannisView profile

Professor

• Structural Biology
• Cryo-Electron Microscopy
• Peroxisome Biogenesis
• +4 more

Christos Gatsogiannis is a Professor at the Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics within the Medical Faculty of the University of Münster, where he leads the Gatsogiannis Group: CryoEM of Complex Nanosystems. He is also affiliated with the Center for Soft Nanoscience (SoN) and serves as a supervisor in the CiM-IMPRS Graduate Programme. His research is centered at the intersection of structural biology and cellular machinery analysis. Dr. Gatsogiannis' research interests focus on structural biology , particularly using cryo-electron microscopy to investigate peroxisomal biogenesis , AAA ATPases , pore-forming toxins , and protein translocation mechanisms. His laboratory specializes in visualizing biological nanomachines at near-atomic resolution, with particular emphasis on peroxisome import mechanisms and cellular protein quality control systems. His team combines cryo-EM with biochemical, biophysical, molecular biological, and bioinformatic approaches to achieve comprehensive mechanistic understanding. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a consistent focus on structural characterization of cellular machinery, with increasing emphasis on peroxisome biogenesis mechanisms, membrane protein complexes, and neurotoxin action. His work demonstrates methodological evolution from basic cryo-EM to high-resolution structural analysis of complex cellular systems, reflecting technological advances in the field. Secured 7.5 million euro DFG grant for state-of-the-art cryo-EM infrastructure at Center for Soft Nanoscience Supervises doctoral students in CiM-IMPRS Graduate Programme Collaborates extensively across medicine, biology, and chemistry departments Dr. Gatsogiannis leads the Gatsogiannis Laboratory at the Center for Soft Nanoscience, which houses a high-performance cryo-electron microscope capable of atomic-resolution imaging. The laboratory, built with vibration-free infrastructure beneath an earth-wall, serves as a central resource for numerous research groups across the University of Münster. His team comprises international biologists, biochemists, and physicists working collaboratively to decode cellular nanomachines.

TingTing HongView profile

Associate Professor

• Cardiology
• Molecular Biology
• Cell Biology
• +6 more

Dr. TingTing Hong is an Associate Professor in the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology at the University of Utah. Her research focuses on the role of membrane microdomains in cardiomyocytes, particularly the cardiac isoform of BIN1 (cBIN1), in regulating calcium signaling and ion channels during heart failure. Education: M.S. from Peking University Ph.D. from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor Her work explores how cBIN1 organizes T-tubules to maintain cardiac function and how its disruption contributes to heart failure. She investigates gene therapy strategies using cBIN1 to restore microdomain integrity and improve clinical outcomes. Research Trends: Recent publications emphasize cBIN1-based gene therapy for ischemic and non-ischemic heart failure, T-tubule structural recovery, and the diagnostic potential of cBIN1-containing extracellular vesicles. Studies span molecular mechanisms, translational models (mice, minipigs, canines), and clinical trial design. Contact: Email: TingTing.Hong@pharm.utah.edu

Bruce SchultzView profile

Professor

• Cell Physiology
• Cancer Research
• Ion Transport
• +3 more

Dr. Bruce Schultz is a Professor in the Department of Anatomy and Physiology at Kansas State University's College of Veterinary Medicine. With a PhD in Pharmacology from Cornell University (1991), he leads a research laboratory investigating epithelial cell physiology and its implications for cancer and cystic fibrosis. PhD, Pharmacology, Cornell University, 1991 His work focuses on ion transport and barrier function in epithelial cells lining hollow organs. Key projects examine: Physiological mechanisms in male reproductive ducts and their connection to prostate cancer Hormone-sensitive mammary epithelium in relation to breast cancer and mastitis Pharmacological interventions targeting CFTR channels for cystic fibrosis therapy Ion transport modeling in bovine mammary systems Collaborations include: Dr. John Tomich (Biochemistry) - synthetic channel peptides Dr. Ronette Gehring - toxin transport in milk Research supported by: National Institutes of Health United States Department of Agriculture Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Contact: bschultz@ksu.edu | 785-532-4839

Michael WilliamsView profile

Assistant Professor

• Neuroscience
• Developmental Biology
• Genetic Disorders
• +3 more

Michael Williams is an Assistant Professor at the College of Human Medicine’s Department of Pediatrics and Human Development at Michigan State University. His research focuses on the roles of autism spectrum disorder candidate genes in neuronal development. Specializes in understanding how mutations in these genes contribute to autism, intellectual disability, and epilepsy Uses viral and transgenic animal models to study gene function in vivo Applies biochemical, electrophysiological, and behavioral assays in downstream analysis His work emphasizes the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in neuronal migration, morphology, and synaptogenesis. Dr. Williams collaborates on neurodevelopmental disorder research and offers expertise in creating novel plasmid, viral, and animal models. Key research themes include: Autism-linked gene mutations Synaptic dysfunction mechanisms Viral vector-based gene manipulation Translational neuroscience approaches Publication trends show expertise in: CRISPR technology applications Potassium channel regulation Cerebellar development RHOA/RHO-kinase roles in neurons Epigenetic impacts of environmental factors

James GalliganView profile

Professor

• Neuroscience
• Gastrointestinal Physiology
• Autonomic Nervous System
• +3 more

James Galligan is a Professor at Michigan State University, affiliated with the BioMolecular Science Gateway, Neuroscience Program, and Cell & Molecular Biology Program. His research focuses on the enteric nervous system and gastrointestinal physiology, with extensive expertise in electrophysiological, optogenetic, immunohistochemical, and confocal microscopy imaging techniques. Dr. Galligan's research spans multiple interconnected fields: Autonomic neurotransmission in the gastrointestinal tract Synaptic mechanisms in the enteric nervous system (ENS) Gastrointestinal motility control systems Enteric nervous system physiology and pharmacology Synaptic and neuromuscular transmission using microelectrode recording Hypertension and vascular function His laboratory conducts ex vivo and in vivo measurements of gastrointestinal motility and enteric neurophysiology in genetically-modified animal models of gastrointestinal disorders. Dr. Galligan's work bridges neuroscience, pharmacology, and gastrointestinal physiology, with particular emphasis on understanding how neurotransmission regulates gut function through receptors including serotonin, opioid, and purinergic systems. His publication record demonstrates sustained research activity spanning several decades, with recent work through 2025 focusing on receptor mechanisms in the ENS. His research has significant implications for understanding and treating gastrointestinal disorders including irritable bowel syndrome, functional dyspepsia, and other motility disorders. The consistent output across multiple disciplines indicates a highly productive research program with translational potential.

• Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
• Cystic Fibrosis
• Lung Epithelial Biology
• +5 more

Xiaopeng Li is an Associate Professor in the Genetics & Genome Sciences Program at Michigan State University. His research focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying pulmonary diseases, including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), cystic fibrosis (CF), and post-viral lung injury. He employs advanced genomic, transcriptomic, and physiological approaches to study airway epithelial function, ion transport, and fibrosis signaling pathways. Research Interests: Dr. Li's work spans: Targeting proton pumps (e.g., ATP12A) and TGF-β signaling for IPF therapy CFTR gene correction and airway surface liquid dynamics in CF SARS-CoV-2-induced fibrosis and host-viral interactions Angiotensin-mediated lung remodeling and epithelial apoptosis His publications reveal a consistent focus on translational models (porcine/murine systems, human tissue slices) and multi-omics techniques to identify therapeutic targets for respiratory diseases. Recent work emphasizes RNA editing, single-cell mapping of airways, and synergistic antiviral strategies. Awards: No scientific awards were listed in the provided text. Academic Activities: While student advising and grant details are unspecified, Dr. Li's extensive publication record and active research (2020–2023) indicate ongoing leadership in pulmonary biology and genetics.

Khalid NaseemView profile

Professor

• Platelet Biology
• Thrombosis
• Cell Signalling
• +3 more

Professor Khalid Naseem is a Chair in Cardiovascular Sciences at the School of Medicine , University of Leeds, and Director of the Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine. He leads research in platelet biology, thrombosis, and cardiometabolic diseases, with a focus on therapeutic interventions for platelet-driven pathologies. Previous roles: Lecturer at the University of Bradford, Foundation Chair at Hull-York Medical School, and Professor of Cardiovascular Biology at Leeds (2017–present). Current grants include British Heart Foundation (BHF) Accelerator Awards, Programme Grants, and Project Grants. Research Interests center on: Platelet dysfunction in cardiometabolic diseases (acute coronary syndromes, diabetes, peripheral vascular disease). Role of lipid stress and CD36 receptor signaling in platelet hyperactivity and thrombosis. Development of novel antiplatelet therapeutics targeting conformational proteins and signaling pathways. Funding from BHF, BBSRC, Heart Research UK, and MRC supports his work. He collaborates internationally on projects including GPVI-fibrinogen interactions and platelet ion channels. Scientific Leadership : Director of the Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine (2024–present). Principal Editor of Platelets journal (2017–2022). Inaugural President of The Platelet Society (2017–2019). Professional Memberships : Biochemical Society, British Cardiovascular Society, British Society for Haemostasis and Thrombosis, International Society for Thrombosis and Haemostasis.

Lynn McKeownView profile

Associate Professor

• Vascular Cell Biology
• Endothelial Cell Biology
• Calcium Signaling
• +5 more

Dr. Lynn McKeown is an Associate Professor in Vascular Cell Biology at the University of Leeds , affiliated with the Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine (LICAMM) within the School of Medicine . Her research focuses on molecular mechanisms regulating vascular function, particularly calcium signaling and Weibel-Palade body (WPB) trafficking in endothelial cells. Education: PhD in Integrin Dynamics (2000-2004), University of Manchester BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences (1996-2000), University of Manchester McKeown's research explores how calcium signaling pathways interact with Rab GTPases (notably Rab46) to control WPB secretion, linking these processes to cardiovascular disease (CVD) and diabetic vascular complications . Her work aims to identify novel therapeutic targets for CVD treatment. Recent publications highlight her discovery of Rab46's role in calcium-dependent WPB trafficking, its implications in diabetes-related vascular dysfunction , and cross-disciplinary connections to COVID-19 fatality and primary immunodeficiencies . She has secured significant funding from the British Heart Foundation (BHF) , MRC , and Royal Society for her work. Scientific Awards: Faculty of 1000Prime Recommended (2019) McKeown serves as a Principal Investigator and Lecturer in the School of Medicine, supervising PhD students and contributing to cardiovascular research training programs. Her affiliations include the Biochemical Society , Physiological Society , and European Calcium Society .

Lara MorleyView profile

Lecturer

• Placental Biology
• Maternal-Fetal Health
• Reproductive Medicine
• +7 more

Lara Morley is a Clinical Lecturer and Subspecialty Trainee in Reproductive Medicine & Surgery at the University of Leeds' School of Medicine within the Faculty of Medicine and Health and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. Her work bridges clinical practice at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust with cutting-edge research on placental biology and maternal-fetal health. Education MBChB and intercalated BSc in Microbiology, University of Leeds (2010) PhD in Placental Blood Flow Sensing and Regulation, LICAMM, University of Leeds (2021) Research Focus : Dr. Morley investigates molecular controllers of placental blood flow, particularly PIEZO1 ion channels, to address fetal growth restriction and placental dysfunction. Her work spans endothelial mechanosensing , vascular remodeling in diabetes , and long-term cardiovascular consequences of pregnancy complications . She combines basic science (cellular models, molecular pathways) with translational applications (clinical guidelines, therapeutic development) to break intergenerational cycles of poor pregnancy outcomes. Publication Trends : Analysis of her 2021-2025 publications reveals three dominant threads: (1) PIEZO1's role in placental vascular regulation under mechanical/osmotic stress; (2) Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition in diabetic pregnancies; (3) Clinical management of placenta accreta and cardiac adaptations in gestational diabetes. Her work consistently bridges molecular mechanisms and clinical obstetrics , with increasing emphasis on therapeutic targeting. Awards Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) Mentorship & Funding : Dr. Morley supervises PhD/MSc/BSc projects and mentors through ESREP/EXCEL scholarships. Her research is funded by NIHR Clinical Lectureship , Wellcome Trust ISSF , MRC , RCOG , and Tommy's National Centre for Preterm Birth Research . She contributes to Cochrane reviews, WHO guidelines, and RCOG scientific impact papers. Research Ecosystem : She operates within the Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine (LICAMM), specifically the Cardiometabolic Section of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, collaborating with the Multidisciplinary Cardiovascular Research Centre on placental vascular biology and clinical translation.