معرفی
Melanie Gartz, PhD, MS, MHS, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy at the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW). She holds academic qualifications including a PhD in Cellular and Developmental Biology (2020), MS (2014), MHS (2011), and BS (2009). Her roles include teaching in MCW’s medical and graduate programs, focusing on clinical anatomy and molecular/cellular research pathways. She has developed the Musculoskeletal Skin block in the new curriculum and engages in interprofessional education.
Her research interests center on modeling genetic neuromuscular diseases using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), particularly Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and Nemaline Myopathy. Key areas include mitochondrial dysfunction, exosome-mediated communication, and disease mechanisms in cardiomyocytes and skeletal myocytes. Her lab investigates pathways like oxidative stress and exosome signaling to understand disease progression.
Dr. Gartz has received over 15 awards, including the Karen Marcdante Bravery in Teaching Award (2022) and multiple 'Outstanding Medical Student Teacher' recognitions. Her 15+ publications span exosome biology, microRNA regulation, and iPSC-derived disease models. She leads grants exploring exosome-based therapies and cardiac dysfunction in muscular dystrophies.
She mentors students across levels, from high school to medical school, and contributes to community outreach via 'Anatomy Nights' and STEM education initiatives. Collaborations include the Kern Institute’s KINETIC3 Scholar program and the Medical College of Wisconsin Cardiovascular Center.
