Mark Yorek

Mark Yorek, PhD is a Professor of Internal Medicine-Endocrinology and Metabolism at the University of Iowa College of Medicine, and Associate Chief of Staff for Research at the Iowa City VA Health System. His work focuses on vascular and neural complications of obesity and diabetes, particularly peripheral neuropathy. He holds a PhD from the University of North Dakota and completed postdoctoral training in Biochemistry at the University of Iowa.

• Education: PhD, University of North Dakota; Postdoctoral Fellowship, University of Iowa College of Medicine

Research interests include mechanisms of vascular dysfunction in diabetes, corneal nerve degeneration as a biomarker for neuropathy, and therapeutic interventions using omega-3 fatty acids and resolvin D1. His studies explore anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective pathways in metabolic diseases.

Publications highlight advancements in understanding ATF4's role in muscle atrophy, high-fat diet impacts on neuropathy, and menhaden oil's benefits in preclinical models. Ongoing clinical studies aim to translate these findings into human treatments.

• Awards: None explicitly listed

Dr. Yorek leads the Yorek Lab and collaborates with VA and academic institutions. His research integrates basic science with translational approaches to address metabolic complications, with current emphasis on early neuropathy detection and novel therapies.