Mentor Monday: Dr. Whitney Wharton

Dr. Whitney Wharton is an assistant professor in the Neurology department at Emory University School of Medicine. Her research focuses on biomarkers of pre-clinical Alzheimer's Disease and the influence of socioeconomic factors such as sex, race, and class on these biomarkers through the use of blood and CSF biomarkers, neuro-imaging, and cognitive testing. Her recent studies primarily focus on the influence of blood and brain sex hormones on Alzheimer’s Disease risk and cognitive decline among sexual and gender minorities.

Shreya Ramanathan, a Research Ambassador with URP shares about working with Dr. Wharton:

"I have learned how sex hormones, experiences with discrimination, and vascular health can impact the risk for Alzheimer's Disease in various populations and how understanding these factors can drive Alzheimer's Disease prevention. This opportunity to work as a student researcher under Dr. Wharton has allowed me to explore interdisciplinary neurobiology research and her work is at the forefront of driving equitable research practices and exploring the lesser-understood aspects of Alzheimer's Disease."

If you are interested in learning more about Dr. Wharton's studies around Alzheimers diseases check out her labs' website

By: Shreya Ramanathan

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