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Michael D. Ehlers is an Adjunct Professor in the Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience. His research interests focus primarily on biotechnology and therapeutic development, particularly in the context of neurological and neuromuscular diseases. Over the course of his academic career, he has contributed significantly to the understanding of AMPA and NMDA-type glutamate receptors, elucidating their traffic and endocytosis mechanisms within neuronal dendrites. His work over the last decade resulted in the discovery of innovative clathrin-mediated endocytosis zones in dendrites and the dynamics of the postsynaptic density (PSD). Ehlers has successfully moved into the industry, where he investigated novel structures and mechanisms, such as the phospholipid binding properties of LIMP-2 and their roles in lysosomal trafficking related to neurodegenerative conditions like Gaucher’s and Parkinson’s diseases. He also identified a new mode of binding for D1 dopamine receptor agonists, which lack the typical desensitization observed with most compounds in clinical development. Collaborating closely with Mark Schnitzer, he defined new dynamics of neural ensembles related to Parkinson’s disease. His current efforts are directed towards scientific entrepreneurship, leveraging breakthrough discoveries to create new biotechnology companies focusing on RNA therapeutics and innovative therapeutic modalities.
Department of Pathology - PhD in Pathobiology. GRE is not required.