Faculty Advisor: Dr. Neil Hogg Phone: 414-955-4792 E-mail: tflewele@mcw.edu
BS, Biology, and BA, Biochemistry, University of North Texas
My scientific interests are centered on free radical research and oxidative biology in sickle cell disease. Sickle cell disease is one of the most commonly inherited blood disorders among Americans of Hispanic and African decent. Sickle erythrocytes are more prone to hemolysis than normal erythrocytes, resulting in increased levels of plasma hemoglobin, a known pro-oxidant. The vascular complications seen in the disease are likely due to this increase in oxidative stress. My goal is to understand the relationship between increased hemolysis, lipid oxidation, and vascular dysfunction in sickle cell disease.