Expertise

The Amin lab seeks to translate their understanding of metabolism into novel effective therapeutics for dieases associated with metabolic dysfunction.

My lab currently develops novel chemical tools for better understanding how modulation of nuclear receptors can influence metabolically related diseases. This includes neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer’s Disease), liver disease (NAFLD –NASH), and cardiometabolic diseases.

Our lab focuses upon novel target identification, rational drug library development based upon machine-based learning, and in silico development using Schroedinger and Gastroplus-based platforms.

Research:

  • Alzheimer’s Disease
  • Liver Disease
  • Cross talk between Gut-liver and brain

My overall research interest is focused on developing novel therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases and other metabolic-related diseases. To achieve this goal, my research focuses on target identification, in silico-based drug design and development, synthesis, and testing in vitro and in vivo.

More recent work has focused upon studying the dynamics of gut brain metabolites that alter synaptic plasticity. Lastly, my lab is entering a new area focused upon mitigating spine alteration in neurodegeneration by regulating the players in actin dynamics.

Current research utilizes transgenic animals and primary heart cells to better understand the mechanism by which activation of these nuclear receptors controls the promoter activity of specific gene targets which are involved in regulating myocardial energy homeostasis such as fatty acid metabolism and glucose modulation

Degrees
PhD, Wayne State University, Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2003
MS, Wayne State University, Molecular Sciences, 1991
BS, Wayne State University, Biology, 1989