Vardan T. Karamyan

Vardan T. Karamyan is a Professor in the Department of Foundational Medical Studies at the Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine (OUWB), where he also heads the Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Disease and Drug Discovery. He joined OUWB in September 2022, after a distinguished career at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, where he served as Full Professor and Vice-Chair of Pharmaceutical Sciences.

• Pharm.D., Faculty of Pharmacy, Yerevan State Medical University
• Ph.D., Biology, Institute of Biochemistry, National Academy of Sciences of Armenia
• Postdoctoral Training, Pharmacology, University of Mississippi

Dr. Karamyan’s research spans enzyme and receptor pharmacology, chemical biology, and drug discovery, with a focus on neurodegenerative and cardiovascular disorders. His work integrates molecular, biochemical, and behavioral approaches to study ischemic stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and vascular dementia. Key areas include the role of neuropeptides like neurolysin (Nln) in modulating the blood-brain barrier, allosteric activation of peptidases (e.g., ACE2, neprilysin), and mechanisms of neuroplasticity and functional recovery after stroke.

His recent publications reflect a strong trend toward translational neuroscience, with an emphasis on developing novel therapeutics and refining preclinical models. Articles highlight small molecule activators of neurolysin, challenges in ACE2 pharmacology, and innovative low-cost stroke models, underscoring a commitment to both mechanistic insight and practical application.

Dr. Karamyan has received research funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the American Heart Association (AHA), recognizing the significance and impact of his work.

As an educator, he has been consistently recognized by students and peers for excellence in teaching pharmacy and graduate students. He mentors PhD students and postdoctoral fellows, fostering an inclusive environment that promotes academic success and innovation.

His laboratory actively investigates neurolysin biology, peptidase modulation, and stroke recovery mechanisms, contributing to a deeper understanding of neurodegenerative diseases and advancing therapeutic strategies.