Kimberly M. Alonge

Kimberly M. Alonge is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Medicinal Chemistry at the University of Washington School of Pharmacy, with dual affiliation in the Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Nutrition (DOM). She serves as Program Director for Matrix Biology at the UW Medicine Diabetes Institute and is faculty at the Plein Center for Aging.

Her educational background:

• B.S. in Biology, Salisbury University
• Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, West Virginia University School of Medicine
• Postdoctoral training at UW Medicine Diabetes Institute, University of Washington

Dr. Alonge's research centers on glycobiology and extracellular matrix dynamics, with emphasis on perineuronal net reorganization, glycosaminoglycan sulfation patterning, and glycan sequencing technology. Her work bridges neuroscience (Alzheimer's, neurodegeneration), metabolic disorders (diabetes, obesity), and translational applications using advanced techniques like laser capture microdissection and mass spectrometry.

Analysis of her 13 recent publications (2021-2025) reveals three dominant themes: (1) Perineuronal net alterations in Alzheimer's pathology across species, (2) Chondroitin sulfate sulfation signatures in metabolic and inflammatory diseases, and (3) Extracellular matrix roles in immune regulation and cancer. Her work demonstrates how glycan modifications serve as critical biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Dr. Alonge currently does not take students but mentors through the Alonge Lab, which collaborates with the Plein Center for Aging, UW Medicine Diabetes Institute, and CHOICE Institute. Her research is supported by institutional frameworks including the Matrix Biology Program and Washington Entrepreneurial Research Evaluation and Commercialization Hub (WE-REACH).