Akerman Laboratories develops translational research tools for earlier disease detection, molecular risk assessment, and therapeutic discovery. Our work focuses on complex diseases that are often silent, difficult to diagnose, or identified too late.
Led by Adam W. Akerman, PhD, the laboratory integrates molecular biology, diagnostic development, preclinical modeling, clinical biorepositories, and data-driven analytics. Our goal is to move rigorous science toward practical tools that improve detection, guide treatment, and reduce preventable morbidity.
We combine mechanistic discovery with translational infrastructure. The laboratory supports basic science, animal modeling, biomarker development, imaging-informed diagnostics, and collaborative clinical research through a fully integrated research ecosystem.
Core resources include advanced biochemical and molecular laboratories, a compliant small-animal surgical operatory, and a deeply annotated clinical tissue and plasma biorepository. These platforms support investigator-initiated studies, multi-institutional collaborations, and translational research programs.
Rigor and reproducibility guide every project. We emphasize standardized protocols, quantitative endpoints, predefined analytical plans, and transparent reporting.
Our team develops and applies workflows for extracellular vesicle analysis, circulating nucleic acid profiling, multiplexed protein measurement, enzyme activity assays, and imaging-based quantification. We also integrate statistics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence into hypothesis-driven research to support interpretable, clinically relevant results.
A major focus of the laboratory is reducing diagnostic error in diseases that are difficult to detect before symptoms or complications occur. Using aortic aneurysm disease as a model, we develop blood-based and multimodal diagnostic strategies that combine molecular signatures, imaging features, and clinical data.
Our long-term objective is to support scalable diagnostic platforms that improve access, reduce reliance on costly or operator-dependent testing, and enable earlier monitoring of at-risk populations.
The laboratory also studies the molecular mechanisms that drive cardiovascular disease, with a focus on extracellular matrix remodeling, proteolysis, microRNA regulation, and aortic wall degeneration.
By connecting disease biology with targeted delivery strategies, extracellular vesicle platforms, and nucleic acid–based therapeutics, we aim to support the development of mechanism-based interventions for diseases with limited medical treatment options.
Teaching, mentorship, and collaboration are central to the laboratory’s mission. We train students, staff, and investigators in experimental design, regulatory strategy, data stewardship, scientific writing, and translational research operations.
Our culture emphasizes rigor, accountability, inclusion, and shared scientific purpose.
