جست‌وجوی استاد و پژوهشگر

Stephen Bustinمشاهده پروفایل

استاد

• Cancer biomarkers
• Molecular genetics
• Reverse transcription
• +۵ مورد دیگر

Stephen Bustin is a Professor of Molecular Medicine at Anglia Ruskin University , UK. He has held multiple academic positions, including Professor of Molecular Science at Queen Mary University of London (2004-2012) and Senior Lecturer/Reader at Barts and The London School of Medicine & Dentistry. Academic Ranks: Professor (Molecular Medicine, Anglia Ruskin University, 2014-present) Education: PhD in Molecular Genetics, Trinity College Dublin Research Interests: Bustin's work focuses on improving molecular diagnostic techniques, particularly PCR, with applications in infectious disease testing (e.g., SARS-CoV-2) and cancer biomarkers (e.g., colorectal cancer). He pioneered the MIQE guidelines for standardized qPCR reporting and developed rapid diagnostic assays like CoV2-ID for point-of-care testing. Publication Trends: Recent articles emphasize PCR standardization, reproducibility challenges, and rapid diagnostic solutions for SARS-CoV-2. His work spans molecular diagnostics, assay design, and scientific integrity, with a strong focus on clinical applications. Awards: 2010 : Fellow of the Society of Biology (FSB) 2006-2013 : Visiting Professor of Molecular Biology, University of Middlesex Expert Testimony: Bustin served as an expert witness in high-profile trials, including the MMR vaccine-autism class action (2003-2007) and the Lundy murders (2015), where he critiqued flawed molecular evidence. Grants & Collaborations: While no specific grants are listed, he led international consortia for MIQE guidelines and collaborated with institutions like TATAA Biocenter and Kim-Il-Sung University. His work includes developing rapid PCR assays and debunking misinformation about diagnostic techniques. Labs & Teams: Bustin's research has been conducted at Anglia Ruskin University, with collaborations in the UK, Switzerland, and New Zealand. He actively promotes transparency in molecular research through his publications and advocacy.

Thomas C. Richمشاهده پروفایل

استاد

• Cell Signaling
• cAMP Signaling
• Biomedical Imaging
• +۵ مورد دیگر

Thomas C. Rich serves as Professor of Pharmacology and Director of the Bioimaging Core Facility at the University of South Alabama's Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine, where he leads innovative research in cellular signaling dynamics and advanced imaging technologies. His educational background includes: Baccalaureate with Honors in Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology Masters in Aerospace Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from Vanderbilt University Dr. Rich's research focuses on cellular signaling specificity , particularly cAMP pathways and phosphodiesterase regulation . His laboratory pioneered single-cell cAMP sensors and excitation-scanning hyperspectral imaging (HSI) techniques enabling 100-fold signal-to-noise improvements over traditional FRET. Key contributions include mapping cAMP gradients in pulmonary endothelial cells and airway smooth muscle, revealing previously undetectable signaling microdomains through collaborations with Dr. Silas Leavesley and Dr. Michael Francis. Analysis of his 14 publications (2015-2024) shows consistent innovation in quantitative imaging and signal transduction , with increasing emphasis on multi-parametric measurement (cAMP, Ca2+, NO, cGMP) and real-time dynamic tracking . His work spans fundamental enzymology to clinical applications, particularly in respiratory physiology and endoscopic technology development. No scientific awards were mentioned in the provided documentation. While specific advisees and grant details are not documented, Dr. Rich's research program demonstrates extensive collaboration through co-authorship patterns and facility leadership. His Bioimaging Core Facility serves as a hub for interdisciplinary projects requiring advanced fluorescence measurement capabilities. Dr. Rich leads the Bioimaging Core Facility in a collaborative research ecosystem centered around hyperspectral imaging development. His team works closely with Dr. Leavesley on optical system engineering and Dr. Francis on dynamic region-of-interest algorithms, creating an integrated approach to overcome limitations in cellular signal measurement within the 'turbulent maelstrom of the cellular environment'.

Chengxue Helena Qinمشاهده پروفایل

پژوهشگر ارشد

• Translational Pharmacology
• Cardiovascular Disease
• GPCR Biology
• +۳ مورد دیگر

Dr Helena Qin is a Senior Research Fellow at Monash University's Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Science (Drug Discovery Biology Theme) and holds adjunct roles at the Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute and the University of Melbourne. She leads the National Heart Foundation Future Fellow laboratory, focusing on developing novel therapies for cardiovascular diseases through translational pharmacology and GPCR biology. Educated at the University of Melbourne, she earned a B.Biomed, PhD in Pharmacology, and First Class Honours in Medicinal Chemistry. Her research emphasizes formyl peptide receptors (FPRs) and their role in inflammation resolution, with nearly 40 publications in top journals. Key achievements include identifying FPRs' therapeutic potential against cardiovascular diseases and pioneering biased agonist drug design. Awarded prestigious fellowships (National Heart Foundation, JDRF, Baker Institute), her work addresses UN SDG 3 (Good Health) and 9 (Industry/Innovation). Major grants include NHMRC, National Heart Foundation, and Diabetes Australia funding. She actively mentors students and leads projects on GPCR-targeted therapeutics and pro-resolving medicines for cardiovascular and diabetic vascular conditions.

• Plant Physiology
• Membrane Transport
• Potassium Nutrition
• +۳ مورد دیگر

Frans Maathuis is a Professor of Biology, holding former affiliations including Reader, Senior Research Associate, and Principal Research Associate in Biology. His research focuses on plant physiology, membrane transport, potassium nutrition, and stress responses to salinity, abiotic stressors, and arsenic. He leads projects funded by the BBSRC, including trials on silicon mitigating salinity in rice and sodium fertiliser development. Maathuis has received the Best Plant Physiology paper award (2001) and served as a visiting professor (2006). He holds editorial roles at Plant Physiology and FUNCTIONAL PLANT BIOLOGY , and is an advisor to the Royal Society of Biology. His work spans over 100 publications and emphasizes crop resilience under environmental stress. Research interests: plant stress biology, ion transport mechanisms, and crop improvement through nutrient management. Key projects include enhancing salinity and drought tolerance in rice and wheat, and exploring microbial and silicon-based solutions for stress mitigation. Grants and collaborations: Principal investigator for BBSRC-funded projects (2016–2022), focusing on rice field trials and sodium fertiliser innovation. Activities include peer review, editorial work, and international collaborations on stress biology and plant physiology.

Kjetil Wessel Andressenمشاهده پروفایل

دانشیار

• Pharmacology
• Heart Failure
• Cellular Signal Transduction
• +۷ مورد دیگر

Kjetil Wessel Andressen is an Associate Professor in the Department of Pharmacology at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo. He is actively involved in research on heart failure, cellular signal transduction, and the development of new pharmacological targets for HFrEF and HFpEF. His work integrates molecular pharmacology, biosensor technology, and cardiac physiology. Andressen holds a Cand. Pharm. (2002) and a PhD (2008), both from the University of Oslo. His research focuses on GPCR signaling, cAMP and cGMP dynamics, and compartmentalized signaling in cardiomyocytes, with an emphasis on natriuretic peptides and phosphodiesterase regulation. He has developed and applied FRET-based biosensors to visualize real-time signaling events. His recent publications reveal a strong trend in understanding spatial organization of cyclic nucleotide signaling in cardiac cells, particularly in disease states. His work bridges molecular mechanisms with therapeutic implications in heart failure and receptor pharmacology. Member, Norwegian Society for Pharmacology and Toxicology Leader of Section of Pharmacology (2012–2016) Scientific Awards: No specific awards mentioned in the provided text. He advises no listed students but collaborates extensively with national and international researchers, including those from Oxford, Hamburg, Baylor College of Medicine, and Karolinska Institutet. He is involved in the Center for Heart Failure Research at Oslo University Hospital (OUS) and leads research groups on compartmentation of cardiac signaling and receptor pharmacology.

Gary Armstrongمشاهده پروفایل

دانشیار

• Neurodegenerative Disorders
• Rare Neurological Diseases
• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Research
• +۴ مورد دیگر

Gary Armstrong is an Associate Professor and Killam Research Scholar in the Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery at the Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital (The Neuro), a research and teaching institute of McGill University. His laboratory focuses on understanding the disease mechanisms underlying Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and developing translational therapeutic approaches. Dr. Armstrong completed his M.Sc. (2003-2005) and PhD (2005-2009) at Queen's University, studying neuroprotective adaptations during stress exposure. His postdoctoral training was conducted at Université de Montréal (2010-2014) and CRCHUM (2014-2016), where he investigated synaptic defects in ALS zebrafish models. His research program centers on neurodegenerative disorders, particularly ALS. The Armstrong Laboratory utilizes zebrafish as an experimental model system to investigate synaptic function defects through electrophysiological, optogenetic, and imaging approaches. The lab employs CRISPR gene-editing technology to create precise animal models with disease-associated mutations found in ALS patients (TARDBP, FUS, CHCHD10, TBK1, DNAJC7, and SPTLC1). This approach preserves native expression patterns, unlike traditional transgenic models that rely on non-endogenous promoters. The laboratory also develops translational therapeutic strategies, including drug screening platforms and gene therapies using antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs). Analysis of Dr. Armstrong's publication record reveals a progression from fundamental mechanisms of neuroprotection and synaptic function to targeted ALS research and therapeutic development. His recent work emphasizes precise genetic modeling of ALS, mitochondrial involvement in disease pathogenesis, and the development of drug screening platforms that bridge cellular findings to in vivo therapeutic testing. The consistent use of zebrafish models across his career demonstrates a strategic approach to studying neurodegenerative processes in a genetically tractable vertebrate system. Killam Research Scholar Dr. Armstrong's research has advanced from basic mechanisms to clinical applications, with his work on Ciprofloxacin/Celecoxib combination therapy progressing through multiple clinical trial phases. This began with a Phase 2a trial (NCT04165850), followed by a Phase 2b trial (NCT05436678), and is now moving toward a Phase III trial coordinated between NeuroSense Therapeutics and Biogen. His laboratory has developed a zebrafish drug screening platform that provides in vivo readouts of therapeutic recovery of motor and synaptic function, effectively bridging cellular model research with animal model testing for preclinical validation. The Armstrong Laboratory at The Neuro maintains a strong focus on translating basic research findings into therapeutic applications for ALS. Current projects include developing endogenously expressed gene-edited zebrafish models, investigating mitochondrial dysfunction in ALS pathogenesis, and screening potential therapeutic compounds. The laboratory actively collaborates with clinical teams at The Neuro's ALS clinic, ensuring research directions remain aligned with patient needs and clinical observations. Future work is directed toward advancing gene therapy approaches using antisense oligonucleotides and expanding the drug screening platform to identify novel therapeutic candidates for ALS and related neurodegenerative disorders.

Andreas Schlitzerمشاهده پروفایل

استاد

• Immunology
• Systems Biology
• Myeloid Cell Development
• +۸ مورد دیگر

Professor Andreas Schlitzer leads the Quantitative Systems Biology research group at the Life and Medical Sciences Institute (LIMES) , University of Bonn. His work focuses on myeloid cell development, particularly dendritic cells, monocytes, and macrophages, using single-cell sequencing and computational approaches. Institution: University of Bonn Research Unit: LIMES Institute, Unit 2 (Molecular Immune & Cell Biology) His research investigates how immune cells acquire tissue-specific adaptations and functional specialization through transcriptomic and functional studies. Recent projects include spatial-omics techniques for gastrointestinal analysis and understanding macrophage heterogeneity in inflammatory contexts. Key article trends highlight innate immunity , metabolic reprogramming , developmental cell biology , and computational immunology . Awards include the Postdoktorandenpreis der Robert-Koch-Stiftung . The lab employs cutting-edge flow cytometry , in vivo assays , and multiplexed tissue imaging to map myeloid cell systems.

Jeffrey Bluestoneمشاهده پروفایل

استاد

• Immunology
• Autoimmune Diseases
• Organ Transplantation
• +۴ مورد دیگر

Jeffrey Bluestone is the A.W. and Mary Margaret Clausen Distinguished Professor of Metabolism and Endocrinology and Director of the Hormone Research Institute in the Diabetes Center at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine. He has served as Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost (2010-2016) and Interim Vice Chancellor of Research (2008), guiding UCSF's academic enterprise and research strategy while securing top-tier federal funding including American Recovery and Reinvestment Act allocations. His educational foundation includes: B.S. in Biology from Rutgers University (1974) M.S. in Microbiology from Rutgers University (1977) Ph.D. in Immunology from Cornell Graduate School of Medical Science (1980) Bluestone's research pioneers immune tolerance mechanisms with emphasis on regulatory T cells (Tregs) in autoimmunity and transplantation. His lab developed foundational tools including soluble receptor antagonists and TCR-deficient models to define co-stimulatory pathways, establishing antigen-specific Tregs as superior therapeutic agents. Current work focuses on Treg stability engineering, pharmacogenomic modulation, and translating animal studies into human therapies for Type 1 Diabetes and transplant rejection through biologics and cell-based treatments. His 2024-2025 publications reveal critical trends: engineering next-generation Treg therapies (CAR-Tregs, orthogonal IL-2 systems), elucidating pancreatic autoimmunity mechanisms, optimizing cell manufacturing, and addressing immune checkpoint inhibitor toxicities. Key themes include antigen-specific targeting, molecular engineering of immunomodulators, and clinical translation of tolerance-inducing strategies across autoimmune diseases and transplantation. Major scientific accolades include: Election to National Academy of Medicine (2015) and American Academy of Arts and Sciences (2008) Roche Distinguished Research Award (2005) and Mary Tyler Moore Clinical Research Award (2006) Outstanding Mentorship Award from American Society of Transplantation (2015) Gerold & Kayla Grodsky Basic Science Award (2004) Elliott Middleton Memorial Lectureship (2013) As principal investigator, Bluestone founded and directed the Immune Tolerance Network (1,000+ researchers across 50 institutions) testing novel tolerance therapies, and secured $500M+ in stimulus funds for UCSF research. His lab has trained generations of immunologists while advancing Treg-based therapeutics through IND-enabling studies and clinical trials. Current initiatives include engineering antigen-specific CAR-Tregs for rheumatoid arthritis and optimizing Treg expansion protocols for clinical use. Bluestone leads the Hormone Research Institute within UCSF's Diabetes Center, coordinating multidisciplinary teams spanning basic immunology, translational science, and clinical trials. His laboratory collaborates with the Immune Tolerance Network and industry partners to accelerate development of tolerance-inducing therapies, with ongoing projects focused on TCR identification for antigen-specific Tregs and pharmacogenomic stabilization strategies for autoimmune and cancer applications.

Oliver Billkerمشاهده پروفایل

استاد

• Malaria Research
• Parasitology
• Molecular Biology
• +۵ مورد دیگر

Oliver Billker is a Professor at the Department of Molecular Biology, Umeå University, and serves as Manager of the Molecular Infection Medicine Sweden (MIMS) research group. His research focuses on understanding the biology of malaria parasites and their interactions with mosquitoes, particularly investigating genetic mechanisms and transmission pathways. His work combines cutting-edge genomic tools, CRISPR screening, and single-cell technologies to uncover new insights into parasite development and host-pathogen interactions. Research interests include malaria parasite genetics, drug resistance mechanisms, mosquito vector biology, and the application of genomic approaches to identify novel drug and vaccine targets. Key achievements include the discovery of essential genes for transmission and the development of high-throughput genetic screening platforms for Plasmodium species. Notable awards include the Hirsch Prize and election as EMBO Member. His lab, the Oliver Billker Lab, collaborates internationally to advance malaria research. Recent grants include multi-million SEK investments for basic research at Umeå University and contributions to global initiatives like the Malaria Cell Atlas. Awards: Hirsch Prize EMBO Membership Grants/Projects: VR funding for basic research (2024) Nordic collaboration grants Malaria Cell Atlas initiative Labs/Teams: Oliver Billker Lab Molecular Infection Medicine Sweden (MIMS) His research bridges fundamental biology and translational medicine, aiming to combat malaria through innovative approaches in genomics and systems biology.

• Gastrointestinal Physiology
• Ion Channels
• Electrophysiology
• +۴ مورد دیگر

Sang Don Koh is a Professor in the Department of Physiology and Cell Biology at the University of Nevada, Reno. He obtained his Ph.D. at Hanyang University under Prof. Kee Soon Kim and conducted postdoctoral research at Kyushu University under Prof. Kuriyama. Since 1992, he has been affiliated with the University of Nevada, Reno, working in the lab of Dr. Kenton M. Sanders. Education: Ph.D. in Physiology, Hanyang University His research focuses on the electrical activity of gastrointestinal smooth muscle cells and interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) , utilizing patch clamp and Ca2+ imaging techniques. He studies mechanisms of spontaneous rhythmicity, intracellular signaling by enteric neurotransmitters, and Ca2+ puff regulation. Collaborations with Drs. James L. Kenyon, Burton Horowitz, and Brian Perrino have explored K+ channel regulation and Ca2+/calmodulin kinase pathways. Recent publications highlight work on K+ channels (TASK, Kv4.3, TREK-1, SK, KATP) , their roles in gastrointestinal motility, and interactions with nitric oxide, ATP, and neurotransmitters. His lab developed ICC culturing techniques (with Sean M. Ward) to study pacemaker activity and enteric neuronal control. Collaborators: Dr. Kenton M. Sanders, Dr. Sean M. Ward, Dr. Burton Horowitz, Dr. Brian Perrino, Dr. James L. Kenyon.

• Neuroscience
• Neurophysiology
• Synaptic Plasticity
• +۳ مورد دیگر

Volko Straub is an Associate Professor in the Biological Sciences Department at the University of Leicester, where he has been affiliated since 2005. Previously, he served as an RCUK Research Fellow (2005-2010) and held postdoctoral roles at the University of Sussex (1998-2005), where he also earned his PhD. His research focuses on neurophysiological mechanisms in invertebrate models, particularly the pond snail Lymnaea stagnalis and the tardigrade Hypsibius dujardini. Key interests include neuronal plasticity, synaptic remodeling, and the role of nitric oxide (NO) signaling in learning and memory. He also investigates central pattern generator (CPG) circuits, neuromodulation, and purinergic receptor function in molluscs and other invertebrates. Dr. Straub's work bridges experimental and computational neuroscience, with studies on molecular mechanisms of memory, neuronal network dynamics, and the impact of aging on sensory processing. He serves as a national coordinator for the British Neuroscience Association's local groups, contributing to broader scientific community engagement. His research employs techniques ranging from transcriptomics to electrophysiological recordings and pharmacological assays. Notable contributions include elucidating NO-cGMP pathways in memory formation, characterizing P2X receptors in invertebrates, and modeling CPG circuitry in feeding behaviors. His interdisciplinary approach integrates molecular, cellular, and systems-level analyses to understand fundamental principles of nervous system function and plasticity.

Annarita DiLorenzoمشاهده پروفایل

استاد

• Vascular Biology
• Endothelial Function
• Sphingolipid Metabolism
• +۷ مورد دیگر

Annarita DiLorenzo is a Professor in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College, where she also holds a position in the Graduate School of Medical Sciences. She leads a research laboratory focused on vascular and sphingolipid biology, with a strong emphasis on endothelial function, nitric oxide signaling, and lipid metabolism in cardiovascular disease. Her research interests center on the molecular mechanisms regulating vascular permeability, inflammation, and blood pressure. Key areas include the role of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and the ER protein Nogo-B in controlling endothelial barrier function and vascular tone. She investigates how sphingolipids such as ceramide and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) influence vascular homeostasis, atherosclerosis, and cardiac hypertrophy. Her recent publications reveal a consistent focus on endothelial sphingolipid metabolism, particularly the balance between ceramide and S1P, and its impact on hypertension, coronary atherosclerosis, and cerebrovascular health. The work integrates molecular biology, lipid signaling, and vascular physiology, often using genetically modified mouse models to dissect pathway-specific effects. Dr. DiLorenzo's research is supported by grants from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the American Heart Association (AHA), and the Harold S. Geneen Charitable Trust, reflecting the significance and translational potential of her work. She mentors postdoctoral researchers and collaborates extensively within the institution. Her laboratory team includes Olivia Garnier and Onorina Laura Manzo, both postdoctoral associates.

Abba C. Zubairمشاهده پروفایل

استاد

• Stem Cell Therapy
• Regenerative Medicine
• Immunotherapy
• +۵ مورد دیگر

Dr. Abba C. Zubair is a Professor of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology at Mayo Clinic's Florida campus, leading the Stem Cell Therapy Laboratory for over two decades. His work bridges transfusion medicine , regenerative biotherapeutics , and space biology to address age-related diseases and degenerative conditions. Education highlights: PhD in Tumor Immunology from University of Sheffield MSc in Clinical Science at Harvard Medical School Residency in Pathology at University of Pennsylvania Research focuses: Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) : Neuroprotective mechanisms via IL-6/VEGF signaling, 3D bioreactor expansion, and spaceflight adaptation Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) : Clinical-grade manufacturing and mRNA engineering Clinical Translation : Pioneering MSC delivery through external ventricular drains for intracerebral hemorrhage Scientific recognition: NASA's Exceptional Scientific Achievement Medal for space-based stem cell research Kirschstein NRSA fellowship AACR Scholar Award Clinical contributions: Principal Investigator for two Phase 1 trials on MSC therapy for bronchiolitis obliterans and ICH Director of Transfusion Medicine Service and Stem Cell Processing Laboratory at Mayo Clinic Florida

• Cell Biology
• Molecular Biology
• Genetics
• +۳ مورد دیگر

Catherine Mansfield is a Senior Strategic Teaching Fellow in the Department of Life Sciences at Imperial College London, teaching undergraduate modules in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, and Biological Sciences. She contributes to curriculum review for first/second-year and postgraduate programs and serves as Biochemistry Year 1 convenor. Her background is in plant developmental biology, and she has worked in widening participation with The Brilliant Club charity. She teaches cell/molecular biology, genetics, and plant biology. Mansfield is a Mental Health First Aider and personal tutor. She holds an MEd from Imperial College London (2024), a PhD from University of East Anglia, and a BA in Natural Sciences (Plant Science) from Cambridge. Her research publications focus on cardiac electrophysiology, biomaterials, and regenerative medicine, with recent work on ventricular fibrillation mechanisms, cardiac patch technology, and stem cell therapies.

• Vascular Biology
• Aging Research
• Phosphodiesterase Inhibition
• +۷ مورد دیگر

Keivan Golshiri is a researcher at Erasmus MC, Erasmus University Rotterdam, in the Department of Internal Medicine. His research focuses on vascular aging, phosphodiesterase signaling, and smooth muscle cell dysfunction, with an emphasis on pharmacological interventions to improve vascular function in aging models. Research Interests: His work spans vascular biology, aging mechanisms, cyclic GMP metabolism, phosphodiesterase-1 (PDE1) inhibition, vasodilatation, and perivascular adipose tissue function. He investigates molecular and physiological changes in vascular smooth muscle cells during aging and explores therapeutic strategies targeting the cGMP pathway. Publication Trends: Recent publications (2022–2024) highlight a strong focus on PDE1 inhibition, soluble guanylate cyclase activation, and adiponectin's role in vascular function. His research combines translational pharmacology with in vivo mouse models of accelerated aging, aiming to uncover novel therapeutic targets for age-related vascular diseases. Scientific Contributions: Golshiri has contributed to several high-impact studies, including a doctoral thesis on PDE1 inhibitors and publications in Aging Cell , Frontiers in Pharmacology , and Vascular Pharmacology . His collaborative work with experts like A.J.M. Roks and A.H.J. Danser underscores his integration into a leading cardiovascular research group. Advising and Grants: While no formal advisees or grant awards are listed, his role as a primary author on multiple peer-reviewed articles and his doctoral thesis suggest active involvement in research projects likely supported by institutional or national funding. He collaborates extensively within Erasmus MC and external partners in cardiovascular aging research. Labs and Research Teams: He is part of a research team at Erasmus MC focused on vascular pharmacology and aging, working under or alongside senior investigators in the Department of Internal Medicine. The team utilizes transgenic mouse models, molecular pharmacology, and physiological assessments to study vascular dysfunction in aging.