Aleksandra Walewska is a researcher affiliated with the Department of Organic Chemistry at the Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk. Her work focuses on peptide chemistry, particularly antimicrobial peptides and neuropeptides isolated from marine organisms such as sea snails. She is also engaged in clinical trials of medicinal products and medical devices. Her research integrates biochemical, structural, and synthetic approaches to understand peptide functions and develop therapeutic applications. Research Interests: Chemistry of peptides derived from natural sources Antimicrobial and neuroactive peptides from marine organisms Oxidative folding processes in cysteine-rich peptides Design and synthesis of bioactive peptide analogues Clinical evaluation of medicinal products Publications reflect her expertise in conotoxins, sodium channel blockers, and enzymatic mechanisms. Her work bridges fundamental biochemistry with applied drug development, particularly leveraging marine resources. Awards and grants sections remain unpopulated in available records. She leads research in the Laboratory of Peptide Chemistry, focusing on peptide synthesis methodologies and their clinical implications.
Danielle Krakauer is a researcher at Erasmus MC in the Department of Clinical Genetics. She is actively involved in cardiovascular genetics research, with a focus on hereditary aortic diseases, aneurysms, and connective tissue disorders. Her work combines clinical data, genetic analysis, and molecular investigation to understand disease mechanisms and identify biomarkers. Research Interests: Her primary research areas include abdominal and thoracic aortic aneurysms, vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, noncompaction cardiomyopathy, and genetic predisposition to vascular diseases. She utilizes multi-omics approaches and animal models to study pathways such as TGF-β signalling and vascular smooth muscle cell biology. The recent publications indicate a strong trend toward translational research, aiming to identify biomarkers for disease progression and to understand the genetic basis of vascular pathologies. Her work often involves large cohort studies and interdisciplinary collaboration. Scientific Contributions: With over 60 research outputs, including original articles and a doctoral thesis, she has made significant contributions to the understanding of genetic vascular diseases. Notable works include studies on familial aortic aneurysm risk, FURIN gene mutations, and natural history of vascular EDS. Supervision and Collaboration: She has supervised research work, indicating mentorship of junior researchers. Her collaborative network spans across clinical and research departments at Erasmus MC and national institutions, reflecting an integrated approach to genetic medicine.
Didi Ebert-Blackburn, DO, MPH, MS, FAAFP is an Associate Professor in the Department of Family Medicine and Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine at the University of North Texas Health Science Center. She holds expertise in chronic disease management, diabetes research, and clinical pharmacology. Her work focuses on improving healthcare outcomes through interprofessional collaboration and addressing social determinants of health. Education: BS in Biology (Tarleton State University); MS in Clinical Research & Education, MPH, and DO (UNT Health Science Center) Key Projects: Led initiatives on HPV vaccine intent improvement, diabetes risk assessment in Mexican American adolescents, and social determinants of health interventions in primary care Dr. Ebert-Blackburn's research spans neurocognitive effects of medications, chronic disease management strategies, and healthcare provider education. She has published peer-reviewed articles in journals like Therapeutic Advances in Drug Safety and Annals of Family Medicine .
Salah-uddin Ahmed serves as Professor and Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Education in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences at Washington State University College of Pharmacy. His expertise spans rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and gout research with emphasis on epigenetic and posttranslational mechanisms driving inflammation. His academic credentials include: PhD in nutrition and chemoprevention, Hamdard University, Department of Toxicology, New Delhi, India Master of Science in toxicology, Hamdard University, New Delhi, India Bachelor of Science in zoology and chemistry, Rajasthan University, Jaipur, India Dr. Ahmed's research investigates cytokine networks (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α) in autoimmune diseases, focusing on epigenetic regulation , ubiquitin-proteasome pathways , and microRNA therapeutics . His lab develops targeted inhibitors for rheumatoid arthritis and gout, bridging molecular mechanisms with clinical applications through NIH-funded projects. Current work emphasizes TAK1 signaling and cannabinoid receptor modulation as novel therapeutic avenues. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals consistent focus on synovial fibroblast pathophysiology and inflammatory cascade interruption . Key trends include microRNA-based interventions (e.g., miR-17), natural compounds (EGCG, thymoquinone), and proteasomal degradation strategies targeting Mcl-1 and TRAF proteins. His work demonstrates strong translational potential with multiple in vivo arthritis models. His scientific recognition includes: Graduate Faculty of the Year (2020) Medical Honoree from The Inland Northwest Arthritis Foundation (2019) ACR/REF-Abbott Health Professional Graduate Preceptorship Award (2012) As principal investigator, Dr. Ahmed directs NIH R01-funded microRNA therapy research and mentors F31 predoctoral fellows like Ruby J. Siegel. His $2.5M+ grant portfolio includes Rheumatology Research Foundation projects on guanylate binding proteins in gout. He actively serves on NIH study sections and editorial boards for Arthritis Research & Therapy , shaping field standards through peer review. His laboratory collaborates with University of Washington Rheumatology Division, integrating WSU's pharmaceutical sciences expertise with clinical rheumatology. The team employs multi-omics approaches to identify druggable targets in cytokine signaling, maintaining strong industry partnerships for therapeutic development.
Craig Meyers is a Distinguished Professor at Penn State University, affiliated with the Department of Cell and Biological Systems and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. He is also a member of the Penn State Cancer Institute's Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis Program. With an h-index of 43, his work focuses on human papillomavirus (HPV) biology and oncogenesis, utilizing three-dimensional human epithelial tissue models. Research Interests: Dr. Meyers’ laboratory investigates the differentiation-dependent life cycle of HPV and its role in cancer development, with five core themes: (1) HPV morphogenesis and native virus structure, (2) ethnic differences in HPV variants, (3) epigenetic mechanisms of HPV-associated oral disease, (4) effects of ART on HPV, and (5) comparative analysis of HPV infection across anatomical sites (cervix, foreskin, tonsil, anal canal). His work also extends to other epitheliotropic viruses like Herpesviruses. Recent research outputs highlight HPV16, proprotein convertases, and genome instability in oncogenic progression, alongside studies on Epstein-Barr virus. Dr. Meyers directs an NIH-funded T32 training grant to advance viral oncology education. His work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals for health and well-being.
Prof. Adam Prahl is a full-time professor at the Faculty of Chemistry, Department of Organic Chemistry, University of Gdańsk. He leads the Laboratory of Peptide Chemistry and focuses on antimicrobial peptides, biofilm inhibition, and proprotein convertase inhibitors. Specializes in chemical synthesis of peptides Research on drug delivery systems and cancer therapy Develops electrochemical sensing methods for biomolecules His recent publications (2024-2020) emphasize antimicrobial peptides , biofilm inhibition , and proprotein convertase inhibitors , particularly targeting cancer and infectious diseases. Articles explore lipidation strategies, electrochemical detection, and structure-activity relationships. He works with techniques like capillary electrophoresis , SERS , and micellar electrokinetic chromatography , focusing on interactions between peptides and biological membranes.
Shoumo Bhattacharya is a Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine at the University of Oxford, affiliated with the Radcliffe Department of Medicine and the Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics. He is also an Honorary Consultant Cardiologist. His research focuses on developing anti-inflammatory peptide therapeutics derived from tick saliva (evasins) to combat inflammatory cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis and myocarditis. He leads the Bhattacharya Group, which explores chemokine-driven inflammation and translational drug development. Education: MBBS from All India Institute of Medical Sciences (New Delhi), cardiology training at Northwick Park and Hammersmith Hospitals (London), and postdoctoral fellowships at the MRC, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and Wellcome Trust. He holds prestigious awards including the BHF Chair (2009) and Fellowship in the Academy of Medical Sciences (2006). Research interests span molecular cardiology, chemokine biology, and translational medicine. Key innovations include engineering evasins to neutralize disease-relevant chemokine networks, with applications in myocardial fibrosis and post-infarction injury. His lab employs cutting-edge techniques like phage display, computational modeling, and genetic engineering. Scientific contributions include over 30 peer-reviewed publications, with recent work emphasizing combinatorial mutagenesis of anti-inflammatory peptides and targeted drug delivery systems. Awards highlight his impact in cardiovascular research, including the Graham Bull Prize (2005). Collaborations include joint supervision with Prof. Gillian Douglas, focusing on atherosclerosis inflammation. He mentors students in molecular biology, protein chemistry, and cardiovascular model systems, emphasizing translational impact. Labs/Teams: Bhattacharya Group at the Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics collaborates with the Douglas Lab, leveraging BHF-funded program grants to advance cardiovascular therapies. Training opportunities include DPhil courses in molecular medicine and interdisciplinary skill development.
Younes Anini is an Associate Professor in the Department of Physiology and Biophysics at Dalhousie University's Faculty of Medicine. He holds cross-appointments in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. His research focuses on neuroendocrine and reproductive systems, particularly energy homeostasis and metabolic disorders like diabetes and obesity. Anini earned his BSc from Ibn Zohr University (Morocco), MSc/PhD from Pierre et Marie Curie University (France), and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Toronto/Ottawa Hospital Research Institute. Research Interests: Investigates cellular/molecular pathways regulating energy balance and metabolic hormone function. Key areas include ghrelin secretion mechanisms, diabetes pathophysiology, and cystic fibrosis-related metabolic complications. Uses mouse models and cellular systems to study obesity, insulin resistance, and gastrointestinal endocrinology. Teaching: Course coordinator for PHYL 5513/4324: Endocrine Physiology . Teaches core concepts in medical physiology, gastrointestinal/endocrine sections in dentistry programs, and reproductive endocrinology. Awards: - Leaders Opportunity Fund Award (CFI) - Edward Christie Stevens Postgraduate Award (U of Toronto) - Javenthey Soobiah Postgraduate Award (U of Toronto) Service: Editorial board member for Endocrinology and American Journal of Physiology: Endocrinology and Metabolism . Active in professional societies including Canadian Obesity Network and American Diabetes Association. Labs & Methods: Cell cultures (pancreatic/enteric cells), siRNA techniques, diet-induced obesity models, immunohistochemistry, HPLC analysis, and glucose tolerance testing.
Dr. Robert Kiss is an Associate Professor in the Department of Medicine at McGill University and an Associate Investigator at the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (RI-MUHC) Glen site, where he works within the Cardiovascular Health Across the Lifespan Program and the Centre for Translational Biology. His research focuses on high-density lipoprotein (HDL) biogenesis and hepatic lipid metabolism , particularly how liver cells store fat and how this contributes to diabetes and cardiovascular disease . He investigates intracellular cholesterol trafficking , lipoprotein assembly , and membrane dynamics using advanced microscopy and cell biology techniques. Recent publications highlight his work on RAB18 GTPase in sterol mobilization, PCSK7 as a NAFLD therapeutic target, and structural analysis of apolipoproteins A-I and E4 . His studies span cholesterol homeostasis , LDL/HDL pathways , and anti-atherosclerotic drug mechanisms .
Jan L. Christian is a Professor of Neurobiology & Anatomy and Professor of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology and Hematologic Malignancies at the University of Utah School of Medicine. With a research program spanning over three decades, Dr. Christian has established a prominent laboratory focused on cell-cell signaling mechanisms during vertebrate embryogenesis and their implications for human disease. Their work has significantly contributed to understanding how bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and other signaling molecules regulate developmental processes, with implications for birth defects, degenerative diseases, and cancer. Dr. Christian's research interests center on signal transduction mechanisms, particularly focusing on Bone Morphogenetic Proteins, Growth and Embryonic Development, Mouse Models, Xenopus laevis, Proprotein Convertases, Hematopoiesis, and the Extracellular Matrix. Their laboratory investigates two major areas: 1) how BMP activity is regulated by cleavage of precursor proteins and interactions with the extracellular matrix, using targeted mutagenesis in mice and biochemical approaches in Xenopus embryos; and 2) analysis of signal transduction downstream of Tril, a novel transmembrane protein that regulates both developmental processes and immune responses. The research employs diverse methodologies including molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology, and genetic approaches. Analysis of Dr. Christian's recent publications reveals a continued focus on BMP signaling mechanisms with expanding applications to iron metabolism and homeostasis. The research has evolved from fundamental developmental biology questions to address clinically relevant issues in iron disorders and hematopoiesis. Their work demonstrates how basic mechanisms of protein processing, dimerization, and signal transduction translate to physiological regulation of iron homeostasis, with implications for diseases like anemia and β-thalassemia. The laboratory has increasingly incorporated systems biology approaches including proteomics and RNA sequencing to identify novel regulatory mechanisms. Dr. Christian has mentored numerous students and postdoctoral fellows who have gone on to diverse careers in academia, industry, and healthcare. The current laboratory team includes a research scientist, lab technicians, and postdoctoral fellows actively pursuing research projects related to BMP signaling and iron metabolism. The laboratory maintains strong collaborations with other researchers at the University of Utah and beyond, particularly with the Babitt laboratory which focuses on iron metabolism and BMP signaling. The Christian laboratory is housed at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, with laboratory space in the BPRB building. The research program has been supported by continuous NIH funding for multiple decades, enabling the investigation of fundamental mechanisms of cell signaling during development and their implications for human disease. The laboratory maintains active collaborations across multiple departments and institutions, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of their research on signaling pathways that bridge developmental biology and clinical medicine.
Jan Christian is a Professor of Neurobiology and Internal Medicine at the University of Utah, with affiliations in the Hematology/BMT division and the Cancer Center's Cell Response & Regulation program. Utilizing both Xenopus and mouse models, their research investigates Transforming Growth Factor Beta (TGFß) and Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP) family signaling mechanisms in embryonic development and adult disease prevention. B.S. Southern Oregon University Ph.D. University of Washington Research Focus: The Christian lab explores two interconnected areas: (1) Functional consequences of point mutations in BMP prodomains causing human birth defects and iron overload, emphasizing their role in ligand folding and dimerization dynamics; (2) Molecular mechanisms of Tril, a transmembrane protein regulating TGFß/BMP signaling during embryogenesis and acting as a Toll-like receptor (Tlr) co-receptor in adult neuroplasticity. Publication Trends: Recent work reveals critical BMP heterodimer functions in mammalian development (BMP2/7 and BMP4/7), Tril's dual role in developmental signaling and immune pathways, and novel mechanisms of prodomain mutations affecting human health. Research spans structural biology, signal transduction, and translational applications for birth defect prevention.
Amanda Hooper is an Adjunct Associate Professor in the Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine at the UWA Medical School, The University of Western Australia. Her research focuses on lipid metabolism disorders, genetic diseases, and clinical pharmacology, with a particular emphasis on familial hypercholesterolemia and inherited hypocholesterolaemias. She has contributed to over 130 peer-reviewed publications and holds an h-index of 28 with 3,042 citations. Her research aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly addressing non-communicable diseases. Recent work includes evaluating novel therapies for hypercholesterolemia, optimizing diagnostic methods for primary aldosteronism, and investigating genetic screening strategies for rare lipid disorders. Dr. Hooper has led a NHMRC-funded project (2011–2012) exploring molecular mechanisms of inherited hypocholesterolaemias, focusing on APOB and MTTP mutations. Her collaborative networks span multiple institutions, with recent studies published in journals like Expert Opinion on Biological Therapy and Pathology .
Arne IJpma is an Assistant Professor in Pathology at Erasmus University Medical Center. His research focuses on molecular mechanisms of aortic aneurysms, including genetic predisposition factors, cellular senescence pathways, and biomarker discovery. He investigates TGF-β signaling disruptions and vascular smooth muscle cell pathology in aneurysm development. Recent studies examine FURIN mutations and metabolic biomarkers for aneurysm progression. His work integrates whole-aorta imaging with genomic analysis to assess familial risk stratification. He contributes to European Horizon 2020 projects on healthcare data analytics and AI applications in medicine.
Alison Miyamoto is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biological Science at California State University, Fullerton. She holds a PhD from Stanford University and a BS from MIT. Her research focuses on molecular mechanisms of Notch receptor signaling and the developmental roles of elastic fiber proteins like MAGP2 and MAGP-1. She regularly teaches courses in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Developmental Biology, and Stem Cell Biology. Her research explores non-ECM ligands for integrins, proprotein convertase regulation of MAGP2 binding, and Notch1 receptor activation dynamics. Key findings include the role of MAGP proteins in Notch signaling and the regulated cleavage of elastic microfibril components. Dr. Miyamoto has advised multiple student researchers including Donovan, Perez, and Hogrebe. Her work has been published in high-impact journals like Journal of Cell Biology and Matrix Biology . She maintains an active research lab focusing on protein-protein interactions in developmental and disease contexts.
Gaétan Mayer is a Professor at the Université de Montréal’s Faculty of Medicine and Faculty of Pharmacy, leading the Cellular and Molecular Biology of Lipoproteins Laboratory at the Montreal Heart Institute (ICM). His research focuses on PCSK9 mechanisms, lipid metabolism, and cardiovascular disease pathogenesis. Education & Affiliations: Directs ICM’s therapeutic targets axis and Discovery & Validation of Therapeutic Targets axis at the Faculty of Pharmacy. Collaborates with the Quebec Drug Research Network (RQRM). Research Interests: Atherosclerosis, LDL cholesterol regulation, metabolic syndrome, and drug discovery targeting PCSK9. Key projects include PCSK9 inhibitors, epigenetic modulation of LDLR, and lipid transport pathways in adipose and liver tissues. Grants & Awards: Recipient of FRQS, CIHR, and Fonds de la Recherche du Québec grants. Notable awards include the Jonathan-Ballon New Researcher Award (2011) and Governor General’s Academic Gold Medal (2000). Labs & Teams: Directs the Cellular and Molecular Biology of Lipoproteins lab, affiliated with ICM and GRUM (Drug Research Group). Supervises 6+ graduate students since 2015, focusing on PCSK9 biology, adipocyte metabolism, and epigenetic therapies.
