The Abadir Lab

The Abadir Lab focuses on uncovering the molecular mechanisms underlying frailty, resilience, and age-related diseases to bridge the gap between basic science and clinical applications. Grounded in translational research, the lab investigates the intricate interplay between mitochondrial biology, the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), and chronic inflammation, with an emphasis on their roles in physical and cognitive decline.

Key Areas of Research

  1. Mitochondrial and Angiotensin Biology
    • Discovery and exploration of the mitochondrial angiotensin system (MAS) as a critical regulator of cellular energy, inflammation, and resilience.
    • Investigating age-related mitochondrial dysfunction and its contribution to frailty, chronic inflammation, and neurodegeneration.
  2. Biomarker Development
    • Identification of novel biomarkers for aging-related frailty and resilience, including cell-free DNA fragments and kynurenine metabolites.
    • Development of diagnostic tools for early detection of physical and cognitive decline.
  3. Innovative Therapeutics and Bioengineering
    • Designing nano-delivery systems for targeted drug delivery to mitochondria, enhancing wound healing and reversing cellular senescence.
    • Integration of artificial intelligence and engineering to create advanced diagnostic tools for assessing frailty and aging-related conditions.
  4. AI and Technology in Aging
    • Leveraging artificial intelligence and bioengineering to address challenges in geriatric medicine through collaborations with the Johns Hopkins AI & Technology Collaboratory for Aging Research (AITC) and the Gerotech Incubator Program.

Our Approach

The Abadir Lab employs a multidisciplinary methodology, combining molecular biology, bioinformatics, and engineering to tackle the pressing health challenges of aging populations. By fostering collaboration between clinicians, scientists, and engineers, the lab ensures that discoveries translate into tangible benefits for older adults.

Translational Impact

With a focus on frailty, inflammation, and cognitive decline, the Abadir Lab contributes to the development of personalized interventions and precision medicine approaches. Our work has laid the foundation for:

  • Repurposing drugs like losartan and valsartan for treating aging-related chronic wounds.
  • Unveiling the role of mitochondrial dysregulation in Alzheimer’s disease and frailty.
  • Innovating tools for clinical assessments of resilience and functional decline.

Collaborations and Mentorship

The Abadir Lab is committed to training the next generation of scientists, fostering an interdisciplinary environment where students and postdocs explore cutting-edge aging science. Collaborations with the Johns Hopkins GeroTech Incubator Program and the Translational Aging Research Training Program (T32) further enrich this ecosystem of innovation.

Join Us

Whether you're a researcher, student, or collaborator, the Abadir Lab welcomes individuals passionate about transforming aging research into clinical practice.

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