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| Name |
Palczewski, Krzysztof |
| Location
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University of California, Irvine |
| Primary Field
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Physiology and Pharmacology |
| Secondary Field
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Medical Physiology and Metabolism |
 Election Citation
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Palczewski studies the processes of rod and cone photoreceptors of the retina and the adjacent pigment epithelium, focusing on visual phototransduction and chromophore recycling. |
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Research Interests
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Kris Palczewski's laboratory is focused on the fundamental process of vision taking place in rod and cone photoreceptors of the retina and the adjacent pigment epithelium and is making essential discoveries about the chemistry and biology of visual phototransduction and chromophore recycling (visual cycle). The lab studies inherited retinal diseases in mouse models that recapitulate human blinding disorders, promoting the innovation of potential treatments for several of these conditions. To understand these processes, the Palczewski team determines the three-dimensional structures of proteins involved in vision using direct in vivo visualization of higher-order macromolecular and cellular structures involved in photoreceptor function. They are developing a novel class of small molecules that may prevent or arrest inherited retinal diseases as well as age-related macular degeneration, the major cause of blindness in the elderly. In a new frontier, the Palczewski lab is advancing the therapeutic potential of genome editing for the treatment of inherited retinal diseases and, by extension, other inherited blinding diseases. Thus, a combination of approaches in chemistry, cell biology, structural biology, and genetics are focused on improving our understanding of the visual processes as a prelude to development of novel therapeutic strategies aimed at preserving visual function. |
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