Michael Alan Teitell

Dr. Michael Alan Teitell is a Professor in both Pathology and Laboratory Medicine and Pediatrics at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA). He serves as the Director of the UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, which has been consistently recognized as one of the nation's top cancer centers. Dr. Teitell's research spans mitochondrial biology, stem cell energetics, and cancer mechanisms, utilizing advanced technologies he and his lab have developed.

Dr. Teitell's educational background includes:

• B.S. and M.S. in Biochemistry from UCLA (1985)
• Ph.D. in Molecular Immunology from UCLA (1991)
• M.D. from UCLA (1993)
• Residency in Anatomic Pathology at Brigham and Women's Hospital (1995)
• Residency in Clinical Pathology at UCSF (1997)
• Clinical Fellowship in Pediatric Pathology at Children's Hospital LA (1999)

Dr. Teitell's research focuses on mitochondrial metabolism and its role in stem cell differentiation, cancer development, and cellular reprogramming. His lab has pioneered techniques such as the photothermal nanoblade for mitochondrial transfer and live cell interferometry for measuring cellular biomass. His work has revealed fundamental insights into how metabolic pathways regulate cell fate decisions, with particular emphasis on the role of mitochondria in pluripotent stem cells and cancer biology. The lab's research bridges basic science with translational applications, developing novel approaches for cancer therapy and regenerative medicine.

Analysis of Dr. Teitell's recent publications reveals a strong focus on mitochondrial dynamics, metabolism in stem cell differentiation, and innovative bioengineering approaches for cellular analysis. His work spans from fundamental discoveries about mitochondrial transfer between cells to practical applications in cancer treatment and clinical trial design. The research integrates molecular biology, bioengineering, and clinical insights to address complex biological questions with therapeutic implications.

Dr. Teitell has received numerous prestigious awards and honors including:

• Harry J. Sacks Endowed Lectureship, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center (2019)
• Elected to the Association of American Physicians (AAP) (2017)
• Lya and Harrison Latta Endowed Chair in Pathology, UCLA (2012-present)
• Elected to the American Society of Clinical Investigators (ASCI) (2004)
• FOCIS/Millenium Pharmaceuticals Award for Genomics Research (2001)

Dr. Teitell actively mentors postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, and undergraduate researchers in his laboratory. His lab offers multiple postdoctoral positions focusing on pluripotent stem cell energetics, transcriptional regulation of B cells, PNPase in mitochondria, and new approaches to cell engineering. His research has been supported by numerous grants, including NIH T32 Training Grants through the Bioscience Postdoctoral Affairs program at UCLA. Dr. Teitell also serves as UCLA's NCAA Faculty Athletics Representative for Intercollegiate Athletics, demonstrating his commitment to both scientific and broader educational pursuits.

The Teitell Research Lab, based at UCLA, employs a multidisciplinary approach combining molecular biology, bioengineering, and stem cell research. The lab has developed innovative technologies including the photothermal nanoblade for cellular delivery and live cell interferometry for measuring cellular biomass changes. Current research focuses on mitochondrial metabolism in stem cell differentiation, cancer mechanisms, and the development of novel therapeutic approaches. The lab collaborates extensively across UCLA and maintains strong connections with the Broad Stem Cell Research Center and the California NanoSystems Institute.