Mapping Mitochondrial ROS Dynamics with Optogenetics

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Changes in mitochondrial function and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production lead to diverse outcomes ranging from stress signaling to disease. These divergent outcomes are spatially and temporally dependent; when, where, and the degree of change in mitochondrial function can influence downstream events. This presentation will highlight the complexity of compartmentalized ROS and mitochondrial energetics, the novel tools we use to control mitochondrial function and ROD production, and how site-specific alterations contribute to signaling events and disease.

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

Dr. Andrew Wojtovich is an Associate Professor in the Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine at the University of Rochester Medical Center. He received his B.A. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and M.A. in Biotechnology from Boston University. Dr. Wojtovich completed his PhD in Pharmacology at the University of Rochester. After finishing postdoctoral work at the University of Rochester, he joined the Department of Anesthesiology. His research program uses optogenetics to study the role of mitochondrial site-specific ROS production and bioenergetics in modulating neuronal function.