Karen Almeida

Karen Almeida is a Professor in the Department of Physical Sciences at Rhode Island College. She teaches courses ranging from General Chemistry to advanced topics in Biochemistry and Pharmacology.

• B.S. in Chemistry from Syracuse University
• B.A. in Chemistry from Rhode Island College
• Ph.D. in Biochemistry from Brown University

Research Focus: Dr. Almeida's work centers on Nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT), the rate-limiting enzyme in the NAD+ salvage pathway. Her NIH-funded research explores small molecule regulators of NAMPT dimerization and activation, linking this to diseases like cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s. The study emphasizes biochemical assays, protein purification, and drug discovery methodologies.

Scientific Contributions: Her work impacts understanding of NAD+ homeostasis and its role in stress response pathways involving PARP and Sirtuin proteins. The research aims to identify novel compounds for pharmaceutical applications.

• NIH Funding: Supports her investigation into structural components of NAMPT modulators.