Robert O. Ryan

Robert O. Ryan serves as Professor of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology & Biotechnology and Interim Chair of the Department of Natural Resources & Environmental Science at the University of Nevada, Reno. His research targets cardiovascular disease mechanisms through lipid metabolism studies, with therapeutic applications for dyslipidemias and metabolic disorders.

His academic foundation includes:

• B.S. from University of Nevada (1977)
• Ph.D. from University of Nevada (1982)

Ryan's laboratory investigates apolipoprotein functions in lipid transport, specializing in nanodisk technology for mitochondrial protection and metabolic therapy. Current projects address cardiolipin dysfunction in Barth syndrome, lutein-based retinal protection, and statin side-effect mitigation using engineered lipid carriers. His work bridges basic biochemistry and clinical applications for cardiovascular and rare metabolic diseases.

Recent publications (2020-2024) reveal a strategic focus on nanodisk therapeutics, with 15+ papers demonstrating applications for mitochondrial disorders, cancer treatment side effects, and inherited metabolic conditions. This trajectory highlights a shift from fundamental mechanisms toward translational solutions.

As an active mentor and department leader, Ryan secures research funding to support graduate training in lipid nanotechnology. His lab provides specialized expertise in nanodisk engineering and metabolic biomarker analysis, with strong potential for therapeutic development.

The research group operates at the intersection of biochemistry and nanomedicine, developing lipid-based delivery platforms that address unmet needs in cardiovascular disease, pediatric metabolic disorders, and drug toxicity management.