Dr. Laura K. Schnackenberg

From 2003-2019, Dr. Schnackenberg’s research program was focused on the use of NMR-based metabolomics to evaluate drug-induced toxicity and mechanisms of disease.  More recently, the application of matrix assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) imaging mass spectrometry to evaluate drug-induced metabolic changes and spatial localization of drugs and drug metabolites in tissues.  In 2019, Dr. Schnackenberg assumed the role of Branch Chief for the IST Branch.  In addition to her continued research efforts related to MALDI imaging mass spectrometry, she helps direct, develop, and facilitate multifaceted research projects including the evaluation of biomarkers and mechanisms of drug-induced hepatotoxicity using in vitro and in vivo models, utilization of patient-specific cell lines to evaluate differential responses to tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and development of novel mass spectrometry tools to rapidly identify bacteria, compound adulteration, and viruses. One of the major goals of the branch is to develop novel in vitro models including tissue-chip-based platforms and assess their clinical translatability.