Generate a tailored SOP for Dr. Paulo Ferreira. Improve your application with a focused, well-structured draft.
Paulo Alexandre Ferreira is an Associate Professor in the Department of Ophthalmology at Duke University. His long-term research program is focused on understanding the interplay between intracellular signaling, trafficking, and proteostasis in both health and disease. Ferreira's research currently centers on dissecting the roles of disease-associated protein interactomes assembled by Ran-binding protein 2 (RanBP2) and its interactions with retinitis pigmentosa GTPase regulator-interacting protein 1 (RPGRIP1) in neuronal cell types, particularly concerning neurodegeneration across a range of diseases. His investigations reveal that RanBP2 is a large modular protein that assembles into multifunctional complexes critical for neuronal survival, while mutations in RanBP2 have been linked to diverse disease processes including neurodegeneration and cancer. Ferreira employs various interdisciplinary approaches, including single-molecule analysis and genetically modified mouse models, to explore selective cell-type dependent roles of proteins affected by RanBP2. His work on RPGRIP1 addresses the molecular and cellular pathophysiological bases of genetic mutations that affect retinal and renal functions. Ferreira is dedicated to identifying therapeutic targets to combat photoreceptor degeneration and related conditions.
Duke University • Durham, NC
Teaching and conducting research in the Department of Ophthalmology.
Medical College of Wisconsin •
Engaged in educational activities and research.
Department of Biomedical Engineering (MS program)