AKSENOV RESEARCH GROUP GOAL:
Our goal is to investigate the molecular "dark matter" of living systems - the compounds that exist but are yet to be identified. We also develop methodologies to democratize mass spectrometry by making it cheaper, faster, and broadly accessible.
RESEARCH GROUP OVERVIEW:
Our group's research is in the field of metabolomics, which involves the study of small molecule processes that govern life's intricate biological mechanisms. We aim to understand the molecular diversity of life and how the molecular distributions change in living systems. Our focus is on "global" metabolomics, where we study living systems in situ and extensively sample them to capture their native complexity.
Mass spectrometry (MS) is a critical technology in metabolomics, and we use it in our research alongside advanced data analysis techniques to extract chemical knowledge from MS data.
PUBLICATIONS:
Canine detection and identification of SARS-CoV-2
The research article “Sniffing out safety: canine detection and identification of SARS-CoV-2 infection from armpit sweat” focuses on the use of detection dogs to identify SARS-CoV-2 infection through armpit sweat odor. The study collected sweat samples from positive and negative human patients, confirmed by qPCR tests, across multiple hospitals and organizations in Belgium. These samples were then used to train six dogs under controlled conditions for 2-3 months.
Pre-and Post-Portosystemic Shunt Placement Metabolomics
Pre-and Post-Portosystemic Shunt Placement Metabolomics Reveal Molecular Signatures for the Development of Hepatic Encephalopathy
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a common complication of advanced liver disease causing brain dysfunction. This is likely due to the accumulation of unfiltered toxins within the bloodstream. A known risk factor for developing or worsening HE is the placement of a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS), which connects the pre-hepatic and post-hepatic circulation, allowing some blood to bypass the dysfunctional liver and decreases portal hypertension. Continue reading →
The molecular effect of wearing silver-threaded clothing skin
With growing awareness that what we put in and on our bodies affects our health and well-being, little is still known about the impact of textiles on the human skin. Athletic wear often uses silver threading to improve hygiene, but little is known about its effect on the body’s largest organ. In this study, we investigated the impact of such clothing on the skin’s chemistry and microbiome. Samples were collected from different body sites of a dozen volunteers over the course of 12 weeks.
News, Articles & Ongoing Projects:
Delving into the Boundaries of Chemical Research: Updates and Rewritten Articles from Aksenov Research Group, Featuring Current Student Projects
ONGOING PROJECTS
Science for Citrus Health
The primary method to control the spread of the HLB-pathogen, carried by the Asian citrus psyllid (ACP), has been through frequent insecticide sprays. A more effective approach could be the use of chemical lures to trap and eliminate these insects. However, ACPs are not attracted to pheromones, the usual secreted chemicals used for such purposes. Instead, they respond to complex volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that resemble citrus plant smells. The challenge is that ACPs react differently to even slight variations in these compounds’ concentrations. Simple VOC mixes are not very effective, and managing the dispersion of multiple compounds is technically demanding. This research aims to refine the use of complex VOCs as ACP attractants, utilizing innovative materials for their dispersion.
Exploring the Invisible Chemical Landscape of Our Homes
Did you know that our indoor spaces are bustling with an invisible chemical world? A recent study by Alexander Aksenov, a UConn’s Department of Chemistry researcher, delves into this fascinating realm. Collaborating with experts from the University of California, San Diego, Colorado State University, and the University of Colorado, Aksenov’s team has uncovered surprising insights into our homes’ molecular and microbial environment.
UCONN NEWS:
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This year the course opened to nursing students, a partnership through the Nursing and Engineering Innovation Center.
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In this Q & A article Dr. Linda Sprague Martinez shares how much more we still have to learn from our community members to address pressing public health issues like health inequity.
The multidisciplinary team at UConn Health has great expertise in the microsurgical management of aneurysms and endovascular management, which saved the life of Christine Skelly from a life-threatening emergency.