Dr. Tae Wan Kim

Biography

Tae-Wan Kim is an Associate Professor in the Department of Pathology and Cell Biology at Columbia University. His research focuses on understanding the molecular basis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) through a multidisciplinary approach, employing molecular, cellular, and chemical biology techniques. Kim conducts translational research aimed at discovering pre-clinical development of novel therapies for AD, utilizing cellular disease models including mouse embryonic stem cell-derived neurons, alternative primary cortical neurons, and various functional genetic analyses. His laboratory investigates fundamental biochemical and cellular defects associated with familial forms of AD, which, while accounting for a small proportion of cases, present significant neuropathological similarities to the more common sporadic AD. A key aspect of his work explores the role of presenilin mutations in early-onset familial AD and how they contribute to cellular deficits. His ongoing research aims to elucidate the molecular factors controlling the biogenesis of synaptic action of amyloid β-peptide (Aβ), a pathogenic agent in AD, with specific emphasis on the role of phosphatidyl-4,5-bisphosphate in synaptic dysfunction and cognitive decline.

Research Interests

Experience