Current Pharmacology and Toxicology Trainees
The Pharmacology and Toxicology Department has a small and vibrant community of trainees consisting of graduate students, post-baccalaureate students, and postdoctoral fellows from across the country (and the world). The newly reformed Association for Pharmacology and Toxicology Students welcomes all trainees, in addition to staff who are thinking about pursuing a graduate degree, to their events.
This May, 3 of our students participated in graduation festivities. Uzoamaka Nwagbo (Bernstein Lab), Jeffrey Mensah (Wilcox Lab), and Karen Acuna Pilarte (Koh Lab) are featured here. Carena Cornelssen, a Biomedical Engineering student (Wilcox Lab), Kaliana Veros, a Neuroscience student (Wilcox Lab), and Elijah Bring Horvath, a Medicinal Chemistry student (Winter Lab) also graduated this spring or will this summer. Congratulations to all of our graduating students on this exciting accomplishment.
Dissertation: Elucidating the role of the hypoxia associated factor (HAF) in NASH-driven hepatocellular carcinoma
Hepatocellular carcinoma is raising in the US due to an increase in the prevalence of obesity. Mouse models of HAF developed NASH-related HCC tumors suggesting HAF has a tumor suppressor role in HCC initiation. So far, I have found that HAF promotes the activation of the NF-kB pathway, potentially, through transcriptional regulation of TRADD and RIP1.
Undergraduate School: University of Sheffield, UK (MS Molecular Medicine); Universidad de Costa Rica (BSc Biology)
Faculty Mentor: Mei Koh, PhD
Dissertation: Determining the role of E3 ligase-substrate interation networks during early development
We have developed a microfluidics-based, high-throughput in vivo CRISPR/Cas9 genetic screening platform (MIC-Drop) that can be coupled to multiple downstream phenotypic readouts to examine gene function at a large scale in a vertebrate system. There are 634 human E3s, many of which have not been thoroughly characterized because of the complexity of the ubiquitin system and a lack of high-throughput technologies to study it have hindered the elucidation of the functions of the majority of E3s in early development. We propose to advance the understanding of the functional roles of E3s during early development by using MIC-Drop to mutagenize all E3 ligase orthologs in the zebrafish, perform morphometric evaluations of the mutagenized larvae to pinpoint E3-induced developmental changes and investigate the mechanisms of E3/E3-substrate pair function in development using both proteomics and classical biochemical approaches.
Undergraduate School: University of Utah (BS Biology, Cell and Molecular Biology)
Faculty Mentor: Randall Peterson, PhD
T32 Developmental Biology Trainee
Neuroscience PhD Student
Dissertation: Changes in structure and function of NG2-Glia during viral encephalitis
Theiler’s Murine Encephalomyelitis Virus (TMEV) is used to model virally induced seizures and epilepsy in mice. NG2-glia, also known as oligodendrocyte precursor cells, may contribute to the clearance of virus from the brain and may also contribute to seizure burden during acute infection. I am studying the synapses formed between NG2-glia and neurons, as well as the phagocytic activity of NG2-glia, in response to TMEV infection.
Undergraduate School: SUNY New Paltz
Faculty Mentor: Karen Wilcox, PhD
Dissertation: A pharmacokinetic and efficacy study of a relevant combination therapy in a mouse model of Dravet Syndrome
Dravet Syndrome (DS) is a rare but catastrophic infantile-onset genetic epilepsy characterized by febrile and spontaneous seizures with significant comorbidities. The use of monotherapies do fail to provide adequate seizure control in patients; thus, combination therapies have become important. However, there is a limited understanding of drug-drug interactions of antiseizure polytherapy, impeding therapy decision-making. This study utilizes a DS mouse model and a standard-of-care therapeutic approach as a proof-of-principle study to provide an essential drug discovery platform to inform future preclinical studies for new investigational compounds.
Undergraduate School: University of Ghana (MPhil; BSc Biochemistry)
Faculty Mentor: Karen Wilcox, PhD
Dissertation: Investigating the Role of Very-Long Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Photoreceptor Health and Maintenance
Very long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (VLC-PUFAs) are a class of non-dietary fatty acids found the the retina and a few other tissue in mammalian vertebrates. VLC-PUFAs are synthesized by the enzyme ELOVL4. Our use genetic and biochemical approaches to study the effect of ELOVL4 and VLC-PUFAs on retinal health using zebrafish, mice, and cell culture models.
Undergraduate School: The American University of Nigeria (BS Natural & Environmental Sciences)
Faculty Mentors: Paul S. Bernstein, PhD and Karen Wilcox, PhD
2023-2024 Graduate Research Fellowship, University of Utah
Dissertation: Mechanisms Underlying the Histone Modifier kdm6b’s Contribution to Development of Autism
The etiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is partly explained by deficits in GABAergic neuron development in cortical regions and altered dynamics of histone lysine methyl modifications. I study the role of histone methyl modifiers in the development of autism with focus on GABAergic neuron development. The results of this study will further uncover potential selective drug targets for the treatment of autism.
Undergraduate School: Shahid Behesti University of Medical Sciences, Iran (MS Human Genetics); Kharazmi University, Iran (BS Cell and Molecular Biology)
Faculty Mentor: Randall Peterson, PhD
Dissertation: Regulation of mitochondrial quality control by t-tubule microdomains in healthy and failing cardiomyocytes
Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is marked by mitochondrial dysfunction and increased oxidative stress. To better understand the molecular basis for this dysfunction, I study the regulation of mitochondrial quality control by cardiomyocyte transverse-tubule microdomains. Restoration of t-tubule microdomains offers a potential therapeutic approach to restoring mitochondrial function.
Undergraduate School: Brigham Young University (BS in Molecular Biology)
Faculty Mentor: TingTing Hong, MD, PhD
Dissertation: Discovering Novel Antibiotic RiPP (Ribosomally Synthesized and Post-Translationally Modified Peptide) Natural Products and Elucidating Their Biosynthesis by Great Salt Lake Actinomycetota
From a combination of genomic, metabolomic, and activity-guided screening techniques, our preliminary data show that actinomycetota isolated from Great Salt Lake sediment represent unique evolutionary lineages with a wealth of undescribed biosynthetic potential and many have demonstrated activity against multidrug resistant ESKAPE pathogens. Their genomes contain several novel RiPP biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs), including many lasso peptide and linaridin BGCs with previously unreported post-translational modification enzymes (PTMEs). My goals are to isolate these RiPPs in order characterize their structures and activities to describe their biosynthesis and characterize these potentially novel PTMEs.
Undergraduate School: Westminster College
Faculty Mentor: Jackie Winter, PhD
Dissertation: Coordinated Regulation of TRPA1, TRPV3, and Kinase Signalling Pathways in Lung Epithelial Cell Damage and Repair Following Environmental Pollutant Exposure
TRPA1 and TRPV3 have been found to be differentially expressed following various forms of lung epithelial cell injury. Kinase signaling pathways linked to growth factor signaling, and potentially TRP channels, may provide protection against environmental air pollutant injury in lung epithelial cells. Through inhibition or activation of various kinases followed by activation of TRPA1 and/or TRPV3, this may offer protection against damage and aid in lung epithelial cell recovery.
Undergraduate School: University of Arizona (BS Biochemistry, BS Molecular and Cellular Biology)
Faculty Mentor: Christopher Reilly, PhD
Dissertation: The role of redox balance in cyanide toxicity and mitochondrial disease
Cyanide poisoning and Leigh syndrome are both related conditions involving major neurological consequences, mitochondrial dysfunction and redox imbalance. Because of the limitations and/or lack of treatment for both, we aim to establish the therapeutic value of restoring redox balance. We will conduct these studies in zebrafish models of Leigh syndrome and cyanide toxicity.
Undergraduate School: University of Utah (Cell & Molecular Biology)
Faculty Mentor: Randall Peterson, PhD
F31 Recipient
Research Interests: As a graduate student in the Bortolato lab, my research centers on investigating frontostriatal dysfunction using a wide range of behavioral and molecular techniques. Our primary focus is to explore the role of key neurolipids, receptors, and neurotransmitters associated with neurodevelopmental disorders like Tourette syndrome, pathological aggression, and impulse-control disorders. Through this research, we aim to unravel the underlying mechanisms involved, ultimately contributing to the development of therapeutic treatments for individuals affected by these disorders.
Undergraduate School: Utah Valley University (BS Behavioral Science)
Faculty Mentor: Marco Bortolato, MD, PhD
Neuroscience PhD Student
Dissertation: Cell-type-specific adaptations in the dorsal striatum of habitual cocaine-seeking behavior
My research involves the study of cell-type-specific adaptations in the dorsal striatum of habitual cocaine-seeking behavior. Excitatory synaptic function and plasticity following prolonged cocaine administration is likely contributing to the induction of behavioral states underlying habitual control of behavior. It is hypothesized that better understanding of excitatory synaptic transmission in the context of addiction will pave the way for therapeutic targets for novel treatments.
Faculty Mentors: Kristen Keefe, PhD and Karen Wilcox, PhD
In January 2024, I began working as a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Dr. Bortolato's lab. Our research focuses on alcohol misuse, associated pathological aggression, and their neurobiological mechanisms. We aim to identify potential molecular targets for the prevention and treatment of alcohol-associated violence using a rodent model. Before joining Bortolato's lab, I completed my Postdoctoral training in cardiovascular electrophysiology until 2023 at Memorial University of Newfoundland, Canada. During this time, I studied the molecular mechanisms of cardiac tachyarrhythmia in a swine model of myocardial infarction. I explored how the onset of myocardial infarction contributes to the pro-arrhythmic elevation of spontaneous Ca2+ activity in the Purkinje fibers during the early phase of infarction, eventually resulting in an elevated heart rate. In 2018, I earned my Ph.D. in Cardiovascular Sciences from the University of Leuven in Belgium. My research focused on Adeno-Associated Virus (AAV) vector 8-mediated gene therapy for preventing Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction (HFrEF) in a rodent model. Before that, I completed my Master's degree in Molecular Biology in 2013 from the University of Skövde, Sweden, and a Master's degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology in 2011 from the University of Rajshahi, Bangladesh. These experiences have provided me with a solid foundation in research and academia in biomedical sciences.
University of Leuven, Belgium, Biomedical Sciences PhD
Post-Doc: Bortolato Lab
Office: L.S. Skaggs Sr. Hall Rm 25
I have obtained my Ph.D. in Neuroscience from the University of Brescia – School of Medicine, Italy. During my academic experience, I have mainly worked on dissecting the molecular mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer´s disease, by using animal models and biochemical and molecular analyses. I have mainly been involved in project analyzing the pathways of programmed cell death, which lead to neuronal loss in several neurodegenerative conditions. Thanks to this experience, I was able to implement new and original approaches to neuroscience research. I am currently a Post Doc in the Bortolato’s lab, where I principally work on neurodevelopmental disorders, such as Tourette syndrome, to understand the underpinning mechanisms in order to be able to develop new therapeutical strategies.
University of Brescia, Neuroscience PhD
Post-Doc: Bortolato Lab
Office: L.S. Skaggs Sr. Hall Rm 27
I recently graduated from a Ph.D. program at the University of Siena, Department of Molecular Medicine, where I primarily work on predictive factors of vulnerability and resilience in major depression. I previously completed my bachelor’s degree in 2017 studying novel targets for anti-angiogenic drugs. I achieved my M.S. in Health Biology in 2019. During my MS program, I worked on the neurobiology of autism spectrum disorder and examined the potential function of fenofibrate as a new possible therapeutic agent. I also had the opportunity to investigate the role of sleep deprivation in psychiatric disorders and its effects on modulating neuronal excitability. I am currently a Post Doc in the Bortolato lab where I principally research pathological aggression and the development of novel therapeutic agents for its treatment.
University of Siena, MS Health Biology, PhD Pharmacology
Post-Doc: Bortolato Lab
Phone: 801-587-3352
Office: 25/26 L. S Skaggs Sr. Hall
I joined the Peterson lab in late 2020, after earning my PhD in Cell and Developmental Biology working in the lab of Dr. Brian Link at the Medical College of Wisconsin. As a postdoc in the Peterson lab I'm studying how skin functions as a sensory organ contributing to touch, itch, and pain sensation. To that end, I'm performing high-throughput genetic screens in zebrafish, and examining how the genes identified in these screens regulate the join development of the skin and it's innervating sensory neurons. I'm also using zebrafish to model rare and/or undiagnosed diseases, with a goal of developing screening platforms capable of identifying potential therapeutics for patients with these conditions.
Wisconsin Lutheran College, BS in Biology
Medical College of Wisconsin, PhD Cell and Developmental Biology
Post-Doc: Peterson Lab
Phone: 801-581-5775
Office: 3420 Skaggs
I am a postdoctoral research fellow in Dr. Martin Golkowski's Lab. My PhD work was in the design and synthesis of novel chemotherapeutics for resistant hematological malignancies. This work focuses on heterobifunctional compounds such as polypharmacologic inhibitors, PROTACs, and molecular glues.
University of Maryland, School of Pharmacy PhD Pharmaceutical Sciences
Post-Doc: Golkowski Lab
Office: SMBB 3800
I am a postdoctoral research fellow in Dr. Mei Koh's lab. My previous research was focused on hepatic lipid metabolism in mice and cell models. I also have experience with mice models of obesity, atherosclerosis and chronic kidney disease.
Graduate Institute of Physiology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taiwan, Ph.D.
Post-Doc: Koh Lab
Office: Skaggs Research Building Rm 3400
I am interested in using zebrafish to study neurobehavioral disorders to identify potential therapeutic targets. Additionally, I am interested in identifying the molecular mechanisms behind opioid-induced neurotoxicity.
Jordan University of Science and Technology, B.Sc Pharmacy, MS Clinical Pharmacy
Indiana University Bloomington, PhD in Intelligent Systems Engineering/ Bioengineering concentration
Post-Doc: Peterson Lab
Phone: 801-581-5175
Office: 3420 Skaggs Research Hall
Post-Doc: Wilcox Lab
Office: 4800 SMBB
I am studying how epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity and DNA damage response signaling cooperate to drive drug resistance and metastasis in hepatocellular carcinoma.
National University of Lesotho, Bachelor of Pharmacy, Honours
University of Witwatersrand, PhD Pharmacology and Toxicology
Post-Doc: Golkowski Lab
Office: 3800 Skaggs Research Building
I've always been fascinated about understanding underlying pathogenic mechanisms that contribute to disease phenotypes in order to identify novel drug targets. Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that affects more than 65 million people globally and has a complex pathophysiology. Pediatric epilepsies, in particular, are devastating and negatively impact the quality of life of patients and their caregivers. My research interests are multifaceted and include the following: (i) investigating how environmental pollutants might affect seizure outcomes in the Dravet Syndrome, a rare but catastrophic pediatric epilepsy (ii) understanding the role of metabolic alterations in causing sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) in Dravet Syndrome, and (iii) screening of drug compounds in the Dravet Syndrome mouse model which would aid in the identification of the next novel compound that could potentially treat certain genetic pharmacoresistant epilepsies. I work with mouse models of epilepsy, in particular the Dravet Syndrome mouse model. I have also worked with in-vitro and zebrafish models of hyperexcitability/seizures.
Anna University, Bachelor of Technology, B.Tech, India
University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, PhD Toxicology (Neuroscience)
Post-Doc: ADD Lab
Office: 0800 Skaggs Research Building
2023 Dravet Syndrome Foundation Post-doctoral Fellowship
| Karen Acuna Pilarte | u0719082@utah.edu |
| Orlando Antelope | orlando.antelope@pharm.utah.edu |
| Qwynn Landfield | qwynn.landfield@utah.edu |
| Jeffrey Mensah | JeffreyAmoako.Mensah@utah.edu |
| Uzoamaka Nwagbo | u.nwagbo@utah.edu |
| Simin Rahimi Aliabadi | simin.rahimialiabadi@hci.utah.edu |
| Bradley Richmond | bradley.richmond@pharm.utah.edu |
| Abby Scott | abby.scott@utah.edu |
| Samantha Serna | samantha.serna@utah.edu |
| Emily Tippetts | emily.tippetts@utah.edu |
| Easton Van Luik | easton.vanluik@utah.edu |
| Kaliana Veros | kaliana.veros@utah.edu |
| Md Ruhul Amin, PhD | mdruhul.amin@pharm.utah.edu |
| Giulia Braccagni, PhD | giulia.braccagni@utah.edu |
| Caterina Branca, PhD | caterina.branca@hci.utah.edu |
| Zachary Brandt, PhD | zachary.brandt@pharm.utah.edu |
| Alexandria Carlson, PhD | alexandria.carlson@pharm.utah.edu |
| Po-An Hu, PhD | u6057868@utah.edu |
| Maram Muhsen, PhD | u6053316@utah.edu |
| Alexandra Petrucci, PhD | alexandra.petrucci@utah.edu |
| Thankhoe Rants'o, PhD | thankhoe.rantso@pharm.utah.edu |
| Ashwini Sri Hari, PhD | u6042122@utah.edu |