Astrid E. Cardona

Astrid E. Cardona, Ph.D., is a Professor and Department Chair in the Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology at The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), where she also holds the endowed Jane and Roland Blumberg Professorship in Biology. She is a key faculty member in the College of Sciences, actively leading research and academic programs in immunology and neuroinflammation.

• Ph.D. in Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
• B.S. in Biology, University of Antioquia

Her research centers on neuroinflammation and the mechanisms of tissue damage in chronic diseases such as diabetic retinopathy and multiple sclerosis. She investigates the functional interactions between immune cells, microglia, neurons, and blood vessels using experimental mouse models, immunological assays, flow cytometry, fluorescent activated cell sorting, microscopy, and molecular biology techniques. Her work emphasizes translational approaches to develop neuroprotective therapies through modulation of innate immune function.

Dr. Cardona is deeply committed to education, teaching immunology and mentoring students at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Her lab provides training for careers in biomedical research, medicine, academia, industry, and pedagogy.

Scientific Awards and Honors:

• Jane and Roland Blumberg Professorship in Biology

She advises doctoral students and research associates, contributing to student advancement and academic achievement. While specific grant details are not provided, her research program implies active external funding and collaborative partnerships. Her lab, the Cardona Lab, is an integral part of the South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases (STCEID) ecosystem at UTSA.

The Cardona Lab fosters a dynamic research environment focused on understanding neuroimmune interactions and developing novel therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative conditions. Lab members include doctoral students and research scientists working on cutting-edge biomedical projects.