Author
Biomedical researcher and the individual who established FoundMyFitness. She also holds the position of associate scientist and serves on the board of the Fatty Acid Research Institute.
Education and training
| Credential | Institution |
|---|---|
| BS, Biochemistry / Chemistry | The University of California, San Diego |
| PhD, Biomedical Science | University of Tennessee Health Science Center and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital |
| Postdoctoral fellowship, Nutritional Biochemistry | Children's Hospital Oakland Research Institute, where she worked under Dr. Bruce Ames |
| Aging research | Salk Institute for Biological Studies |
Research areas
Her investigations cover mitochondrial metabolism, apoptosis, and cancer biology; micronutrient status including vitamin D and omega-3/DHA; nutrigenomics; hormesis through sauna, cold exposure, and phytochemicals; aging and neurodegeneration; as well as how nutrition affects brain function.
Graduate work
She discovered that MCL-1, a protein critical for cell survival, is present in two distinct mitochondrial locations with separate roles, linking its anti-apoptotic function to a newly identified part in mitochondrial respiration and the upkeep of mitochondrial structure.
Postdoctoral work
Exploring how micronutrients affect metabolism and inflammation, the function of vitamin D in the brain, and insulin signaling in protein misfolding associated with neurodegenerative conditions.
Selected publications
- The role of MCL-1 in mitochondrial architecture and cancer biology Nature Cell Biology (2012); review in Trends in Cell Biology
- The vitamin D hormone controls the production of serotonin FASEB Journal two-part series (2014-2015)
- How phosphatidylcholine-DHA works to prevent Alzheimer's disease FASEB Journal
- Proteotoxicity and aging, Science
- Additional work in Blood and Molecular and Cellular Biology
Media and platform
Via FoundMyFitness, comprising a website, a podcast that began in 2015, and a YouTube channel, she provides education to millions on evidence-based subjects in nutrition, aging, and disease prevention. She additionally hosts The Aliquot, a premium podcast for members featuring monthly live Q&A sessions.
Profiles and links
Research-grade · COA per lot