David W. Walker, PhDBACK

Assistant Professor, University of California, Los Angeles

Investigating the Life-extending Mechanisms of Apolipoprotein D: An Evolutionary Conserved Modulator of Oxidative Stress and Aging

In fruitflies, mice and plants, Apolipoprotein D (ApoD) -- a gene that has been linked to a number of age-related diseases in humans, including Alzheimer's disease -- may play a role in protecting cells against free radicals and oxidative stress. Previous studies showed that ApoD can extend lifespan when activated in all cells and tissues. Dr. Walker will study the role ApoD plays in the regulation of lifespan using genetics, molecular biology, and whole organism physiology. He will study the impact of targeted expression of ApoD to specific cells and tissues at specific intervals in the animal's lifetime. He will also investigate the relationship between ApoD and the insulin/IGF-1 signaling pathway, an evolutionary conserved determinant of longevity. The long-term aim of his work is to provide effective therapeutic targets to treat or prevent age-related diseases.