معرفی
Alberto Rascon is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry within the College of Science at San José State University. He leads an active research laboratory focused on understanding and inhibiting mosquito reproduction through the study of digestive proteases, with support from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). His work aims to reduce mosquito populations and limit the transmission of dangerous viruses such as Zika, Dengue, Yellow Fever, and Chikungunya.
Dr. Rascon's research centers on the biochemical mechanisms that enable mosquitoes to convert blood meal proteins into resources for egg production. By targeting key proteolytic enzymes, his team seeks to disrupt this process and thereby control vector populations. His work lies at the intersection of biochemistry, molecular biology, and public health.
Over the past five and a half years, Dr. Rascon has mentored more than 20 undergraduate students, many of whom have advanced to medical, dental, pharmacy, optometry, and Ph.D. programs. His students have contributed to manuscript submissions and presented their work at local and national conferences, gaining valuable scientific communication experience.
His lab utilizes advanced biochemical techniques, including protein purification using Fast Protein Liquid Chromatography (FPLC) systems. One former student, Saira Montermoso, who majored in Chemistry (Biochemistry) and Computer Science, joined his lab in 2016 and went on to pursue a Ph.D. at the University of Pennsylvania.
