Lipid Science & Technology

Biography

Irina Pikuleva studies cholesterol metabolism and cytochrome P450 enzymes whose role is to generate more polar forms of cholesterol for cellular elimination or regulation. Her laboratory focuses on: 1) the role of cholesterol-related proteins in retinal structure and function; and 2) potential of CYP46A1 as a pharmacologic target for Alzheimer's disease. The ultimate goal of these studies is to identify new startegies for treatment of diseases of the eye (age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy) and the brain (Alzheimer’s disease). In search for these new strategies, the Pikuleva laboratory evaluates existing medications with a goal of drug re-purposing.

Research Interest

Cholesterol and age-related macular degeneration