Daniel C Lee

Daniel C. Lee, PhD, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Neuroscience at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine, where he is affiliated with the Sanders-Brown Center on Aging. He joined UK in 2019 after serving as an Associate Professor and Director of Neurodegenerative Sciences at the University of South Florida College of Pharmacy. He holds the William N. Sanders Endowed Chair in Geriatric Pharmacotherapy and co-directs the UK-ADRC Research Education Component.

Education:

• B.S. in Chemistry, Lincoln University (1999)
• Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences/Neuropharmacology, Florida A&M University (2005)
• Postdoctoral Training, University of South Florida College of Medicine

Dr. Lee's research focuses on the intersection of neuroinflammation, arginine metabolism, polyamine biology, and protein citrullination in Alzheimer's disease and tauopathies. His lab investigates how metabolic dysregulation contributes to protein aggregation, impaired autophagy, and neurodegeneration. Key areas include the role of endogenous polyamines in inhibiting tau aggregation, the function of the GPRC6a receptor in arginine sensing and mTORC1 signaling, and the pathological consequences of tau citrullination.

His recent publications highlight a multidisciplinary approach using transgenic models, pharmacology, and molecular tools to uncover mechanisms in neurodegeneration. Common themes include nutrient sensing deficits, post-translational modifications of tau, and therapeutic targeting of metabolic pathways in dementia.

Scientific Awards and Honors:

• William N. Sanders Endowed Chair in Geriatric Pharmacotherapy

Dr. Lee has secured primary funding from major institutions including NIH/NIA (R01, R21), Alzheimer’s Association, Michael J. Fox Foundation, Bright Focus Foundation, and the Florida Department of Health. He actively mentors trainees and leads educational initiatives through the UK-ADRC REC. His lab emphasizes scientific integrity, curiosity, and inclusivity, welcoming motivated individuals to advance research in neurodegenerative diseases.

The lab employs a range of techniques including genetically engineered mouse models, adeno-associated viral gene therapy, small molecule pharmacology, and bioinformatics to study proteostasis and develop novel therapeutics for Alzheimer's and related disorders.