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Vann Bennett is the George Barth Geller Distinguished Professor Emeritus at Duke University in the Department of Biochemistry. His research has primarily focused on the functional organization of vertebrate plasma membranes, particularly through the study of ankyrin proteins. These proteins are crucial in coordinating related membrane-spanning proteins into micron-scale compartments, facilitating the functioning of excitable membranes in the nervous system and heart. His contributions include identifying ankyrin's role in associating with membrane transporters and cell adhesion proteins. Bennett's work highlights the intricate relationships between ankyrins and spectrins in the formation of resilient networks on plasma membranes, an important aspect of cellular structure and function. His research has broader implications, addressing mutations in these proteins which can lead to various human diseases. Vann Bennett has a distinguished academic history that includes a Postdoctoral Training with Daniel Branton at Harvard University and significant accolades recognizing his research contributions. He continues to teach and influence new generations of students in biochemistry.
Department of Biomedical Engineering (MS program)