Title: MS-Based Glycomics and Glycoproteomics Methods Enabling Better Understanding the Biological and Biomedical Roles of Glycans in Neurodegenerative Diseases
Keywords: LC-MS/MS, Glycomics, Glycoproteomics, Glycans and Glycopeptide Isomers, Bioinformatics, Biomarkers, Neurodegenerative Diseases, Alzheimer’s Disease
Abstract: Glycans, or sugar molecules, play important roles in various biological and biomedical processes, including neurodegenerative diseases. Understanding the specific roles of glycans in these diseases can provide valuable insights into disease mechanisms and potentially lead to the development of novel therapeutic strategies. In the context of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and Huntington’s disease (HD), LC-MS/MS glycomics and glycoproteomics can be used to investigate the alterations in glycan structures and glycoprotein profiles associated with disease progression. This can help identify specific glycan biomarkers that are indicative of disease pathology and potentially serve as diagnostic or prognostic markers.
Bio: Paul W. Horn Distinguished Professor, Robert A Welch Chair in Chemistry, Associate Vice President of Research and Innovation, and Director of the TTU Center for Biotechnology & Genomics
Dr. Mechref’s impressive credentials and contributions to the field of chemistry and biochemistry have garnered him numerous accolades and recognition. As the Robert A Welch Endowed Chair in Chemistry and the Paul W. Horn Distinguished and Robert F Welch Professor at Texas Tech University, he holds esteemed positions within the academic community. Additionally, he serves as an Associate Vice President for Research and Innovation, showcasing his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and fostering innovation.
Dr. Mechref’s expertise lies in the development of sensitive biomolecular mass spectrometry methods. These methods have revolutionized the qualitative and quantitative assessment of proteins, glycoproteins, and glycans in various diseases and medical conditions. His groundbreaking research has shed light on the roles these biomolecules play in the development and progression of numerous ailments, paving the way for improved diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Dr. Mechref research activities are support by multiple grants from the NIH, CPRIT, The Welch Foundation and The CH foundation.
With an extensive publication record, Dr. Mechref is a prolific writer who has contributed significantly to scientific literature. He has authored 37 review articles, many of which are highly cited or downloaded, along with 23 book chapters and 232 peer-reviewed research papers. His contributions have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by his impressive Google Scholar h-index of 71 and over 14,700 citations.
In addition to his research and publication achievements, Dr. Mechref has taken on leadership roles within the scientific community. He is the founding Editor-in-Chief of BioChem, an esteemed journal in the field, and serves as an Associate Editor for Frontiers Oncology. Furthermore, his expertise is recognized by his appointment as a standing member of the NIH EBIT study section from 2018 to 2022.
Dr. Mechref’s dedication to advancing cancer research is evident through his role as the Chair of the Steering Committee of the NCI Alliance of Glycobiologists for Cancer Research. This position allows him to collaborate with other leading scientists and drive progress in understanding the role of glycobiology in cancer.
The numerous awards bestowed upon Dr. Mechref further exemplify his excellence in academia and mentoring. He has been honored with the prestigious 2019 TTU President’s Academic Achievement Award and the 2019 TTU Nancy Bell Faculty Excellence in Mentoring Award. These accolades not only recognize his contributions to the field but also highlight his commitment to nurturing the next generation of scientists.
Overall, Dr. Yehia Mechref’s accomplishments and impact in the fields of chemistry, biochemistry, and cancer research are truly remarkable. His innovative research, extensive publication record, and leadership roles make him an influential figure in the scientific community.
Education: Ph.D., Oklahoma State University
Postdoctoral Study, Indiana University
Research Area: Analytical Chemistry
Host: Prof. Lingjun Li