Research Profiles
Scientific Discovery
Molecular Recycling: Taking Out the Cellular Trash
Ana Maria Cuervo, M.D., Ph.D., is one of the world’s leading authorities on autophagy, a “garbage disposal” system that cells use to dispose of and recycle their worn-out molecules. Dr. Cuervo’s research has shown that glitches in autophagy play a role in numerous diseases (including Parkinson’s and Huntington’s) as well as in age-related conditions such as organ decline and weakened immunity. She is now screening for drugs that would normalize autophagy as a novel approach for treating or even preventing such problems. Dr. Cuervo is professor in the departments of developmental and molecular biology, of anatomy and structural biology, and of medicine (gastroenterology and liver diseases), and the Robert and Renée Belfer Chair for the Study of Neurodegenerative Diseases.
Ana Maria Cuervo, Ph.D., M.D.
- Distinguished Professor, Department of Developmental & Molecular Biology
- Distinguished Professor, Department of Medicine (Hepatology)
- Robert and Renée Belfer Chair for the Study of Neurodegenerative Diseases
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