Marie Fraser

Marie Fraser is a Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences within the Faculty of Science at the University of Calgary. She holds a B.Sc. (1983) and Ph.D. (1987) in Chemistry from Queen's University. Her research centers on the structure and function of metabolic enzymes, particularly succinyl-CoA synthetase and ATP-citrate lyase, with implications for understanding fundamental biochemical processes and disease mechanisms.

Dr. Fraser's work investigates catalytic mechanisms and biological roles of enzymes involved in central metabolism. Her laboratory employs X-ray crystallography to determine enzyme structures and elucidate reaction mechanisms, focusing on how these enzymes bind substrates, form intermediates, and regulate metabolic flux. Research extends to understanding enzyme evolution, specificity, and inhibition across diverse biological systems.

Her extensive publication record demonstrates consistent focus on enzyme structure-function relationships, with recent advances in understanding succinyl-phosphate intermediates, phosphohistidine loop conformations, and inhibitor binding mechanisms. These studies provide foundational knowledge for targeting metabolic enzymes in therapeutic applications.

Notable recognitions include the AHFMR Medical Scholar award (2007) and being ranked among the top three candidates for the NSERC University Faculty Award (2002).