(2i) Metabolic Engineering to Produce Gene Therapies and Therapeutic Biomolecules

In this work, I will introduce two exemplary studies that look to address these challenges. First, I will describe a proof of concept study showing that engineering strategies targeting cell membrane physiology and membrane trafficking can indeed increase the production capacity of cell factories in the context of bacterial cells for biofuel production. Then, I will showcase an improved approach for gene delivery to a target neuronal sub-population in-vivo using an engineered Adeno-Associated Virus (AAV) vector, the most efficient option for intracranial gene therapies to treat neurogenerative diseases. I envision these studies and others will detonate a series of studies and collaborations to address the current challenges of bioengineering.

Research Interests: Focused research efforts are needed to build improved producer cells of valuable molecules and gene therapies and more efficient gene delivery systems in-vivo. Engineering strategies leveraging physiological processes such as membrane trafficking can produce cells with enhanced production capacity. Likewise, the delivery of therapeutic genes to the desired cell types in-vivo can be improved by engineering surface elements on gene therapy vectors via directed evolution or rational design. Lastly, the production of therapeutic molecules using Metabolic Engineering will be optimized when in-vivo testing protocols can be implemented.

Teaching Interests: Mentor-mentee relationships are essential to transfer expertise across generations and improve the chances of answering and making research questions. Knowledge transfer also occurs within the classroom, where the seed of curiosity and the desire to solve pressing issues are planted. My experiences with mentees and students have strengthened my passion for teaching. A good-quality teacher can form good-quality students with a bright future. I am interested in teaching ChE courses that awaken the desire to solve the World's most pressing issues in the students.