Ute Panzenboeck

Ute Panzenboeck is an Associate Professor at the Medical University of Graz, affiliated with the Otto Loewi Research Center for Vascular Biology, Immunology, and Inflammation. Her research focuses on nuclear receptors, particularly liver X receptors (LXRs), as lipid sensors and regulators at endothelial barriers, linking HDL metabolism to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's (AD) and diabetes.

Education

• Studies in Biology (Zoology and Biochemistry) at the University of Graz (1988-1994)
• Master of Science (Mag. rer. nat.) in Physiology, University of Graz (1992-1994)
• PhD in Medical Biochemistry, University of Graz (1995-1997)

Research Interests

Her work investigates LXRs as key regulators of HDL metabolism and their role in cholesterol flux, neuroprotection, and immune-metabolic functions at the blood-brain barrier (BBB). She explores the interplay between HDL-associated proteins, amyloid-beta (Aβ) metabolism, and cerebral insulin resistance in AD, alongside the anti-inflammatory effects of HDL and LXR agonists.

Advising & Leadership

• Supervised multiple PhD students in projects analyzing cholesterol transport, APP/Aβ processing, and nuclear receptor signaling at the BBB
• Speaker of the Curricular Committee of the PhD program Molecular Medicine (2012-2020)
• Board member of the Research Promotion Committee (2013-2015)
• 2nd Deputy Chair for Immunology and Pathophysiology (2016-2020)

Labs & Affiliations

Currently affiliated with the Otto Loewi Research Center for Vascular Biology, Immunology, and Inflammation, where she continues to bridge lipid metabolism, neurodegeneration, and endothelial barrier function.