Andréia C. Mortensen

Andréia C. Mortensen is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Pharmacology & Physiology at Drexel University College of Medicine. Her research focuses on glutamate transporters' regulation and their role in neurological disorders such as stroke, epilepsy, and substance use disorders. She leads the A. Mortensen Lab, which develops small molecule allosteric modulators targeting EAATs (excitatory amino acid transporters). Her work combines molecular pharmacology, in vitro models (e.g., stroke, epilepsy), and in vivo models (e.g., neuropathic pain, cocaine abuse). Collaborations include computational modeling, crystallography, and medicinal chemistry to advance preclinical therapies.

• Education: PhD in Biochemistry from Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Brazil (2001)
• Postdoctoral Training: Neuroscience at Vollum Institute (OHSU) and Neurobiology at University of Pittsburgh

Research interests emphasize EAAT regulation in health/disease and drug development for neurological conditions. Key awards include the 2024 Early Career Mentoring Award and 2021 Scholarly Materials Award. She collaborates with institutions like the Wistar Institute and University of São Paulo.

Publications highlight neuroprotective compounds from natural sources, allosteric modulator discovery, and mechanisms of glutamate-mediated toxicity. Her lab’s translational projects aim to bridge basic science and clinical applications in neurology.