DORA KOVACS, PhD

based in Charlestown, MA

Dr. Kovacs' research is focused on understanding how cholesterol metabolism regulates the generation of amyloid beta (Ab) protein, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. Mounting evidence indicates that even fine imbalances in intracellular cholesterol distribution to lipid rafts, the Niemann-Pick compartment and cholesteryl-ester droplets, can trigger changes in Ab generation. The lab is also carrying out mechanistic studies in concert with preclinical analysis of transgenic animals, aiming to develop inhibitors of acyl-coenzyme A:cholesterol acyltransferase (ACAT, a cholesterol esterifying enzyme) as therapeutic agents for Alzheimer's disease.

Key words: amyloid beta peptide, amyloid precursor protein, Acyl-coenzyme A:cholesterol acyltransferase, presenilin, neurological diseases, Alzheimer's disease, cholesterol, esters, alpha-2-macroglobulin.

Dr. Kovacs articles at PubMed | Dr. Kovacs lab web page |  Dr.Kovacs editorial contact