Eric Lu
Program: Molecular Genetics and Genomics
Current advisor: Dave Pagliarini, PhD
Undergraduate university: University of Arizona
Research summary
Coenzyme Q (CoQ) is an endogenously synthesized redox-active lipid cofactor that plays a fundamental role in the mitochondrial electron transport chain and is involved in critical cellular processes, including the coordination of various metabolic processes and antioxidant defense. CoQ deficiency is a hallmark of mitochondrial disease and has additionally been associated with other conditions like cardiomyopathy and Parkinson’s, yet many details surrounding its biosynthesis and subsequent transport to biological membranes remain unclear. The proposed research seeks to identify the protein machinery involved in the distribution of CoQ – a crucial step toward developing a mechanistic understanding of its intracellular movement – which may help inform new therapeutic approaches to treat CoQ deficiencies.
Graduate publications