Mike Henne

Mike Henne is an Associate Professor at UT Southwestern and Director of the Lipid Metabolism & Neurodegenerative Diseases (LMND) Program. His research focuses on the intersection of lipid metabolism and neurodegenerative diseases, particularly through the lens of inter-organelle communication and membrane trafficking.

Dr. Henne's lab is renowned for pioneering studies on lipid droplets and their roles in neurological health. He combines biochemical, cell biological, and genetic approaches to dissect cellular mechanisms linked to diseases like SCAR20 (spinocerebellar ataxia). His work has identified key proteins such as SNX14 and Mdm1 in organelle tethering and lipid transport.

Dr. Henne is a leading figure in the global lipid droplet community, organizing major conferences like the FASEB SRC Lipid Metabolism Conference (2024) and the upcoming FASEB Lipid Droplet Conference (2026). His research has been funded by NIH NIGMS, NIH NIDDK, the Searle Scholars Program, and the Welch Foundation.

Scientific Awards & Fellowships:

• Martha Lee Foster Professorship in Brain Science & Medicine (2025)
• Max Perutz Prize (for graduate work)
• Sam & Nancy Fleming Research Fellowship (postdoctoral)