معرفی
David Weinkove is a Professor in the Department of Biosciences at Durham University, leading research on host-microbe interactions and ageing using the C. elegans model organism. His work focuses on understanding how microbial metabolism, particularly folate pathways in E. coli, influences host longevity and health. He is affiliated with the Biophysical Sciences Institute (BSI) and chairs the British Society for Research on Ageing.
- Research Interests: Host-microbe interactions, microbial folates, C. elegans biology, ageing mechanisms, and drug discovery.
- Lab Members: Current members include Adelaide Raimundo, Sushmita Maitra, Giulia Zavagno, and Hannah Raddings. Notable past members include Andrea Bender, Marjanne Bourgois, and Gonçalo Correia.
His team developed automated methods for measuring C. elegans ageing through movement analysis, leading to the spinout company Magnitude Biosciences. Key projects include investigating folic acid's role in host-microbe dynamics and using C. elegans to produce therapeutic proteins for immune disorders.
Publications highlight breakthroughs in probiotic combinations, pepper extracts' anti-ageing effects, and bacterial folate metabolism's impact on lifespan. His lab also explores microbiota modulation for obesity and neuroprotective herbal compounds.
- Awards: Chair of The British Society for Research on Ageing (2022).
- Supervision: Advises Chad Yanyatan and has guided over 20 students and researchers in ageing and microbiology.
Collaborations include work with Chris Saunter on imaging technologies and Fiona Hair on microbial interactions. His research bridges fundamental biology with translational applications in healthspan extension and drug development.
