Saint Louis University - United States
Author Profile
ORCID
🎓 Early academic pursuits
Adriana Maria Montaño Suárez embarked on her academic journey with a passion for biological sciences, earning her Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia. Her early interest in biochemistry led her to work as a research assistant at the Biochemistry Research Center in Colombia. Seeking to expand her expertise, she pursued her Ph.D. in Medical Sciences at Gifu University in Japan, where she focused on the genetic and biochemical aspects of metabolic disorders. Her dissertation on the mouse N-acetylgalactosamine-6-sulfate sulfatase (Galns) gene showcased her dedication to understanding genetic regulation and metabolic pathways. Additionally, she honed her linguistic skills by completing a Japanese language course at Nagoya University, which facilitated her research and integration into Japan's scientific community.
🌟 Professional endeavors
Dr. Montaño Suárez's career has been marked by significant roles in academia and research. After completing her postdoctoral training at prestigious institutions in the USA and Japan, she joined the School of Medicine at Saint Louis University as an assistant professor in the Department of Pediatrics. Over the years, she progressed through the ranks, earning tenure and becoming a professor in both the Department of Pediatrics and the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Her leadership abilities were recognized, leading her to serve as Vice Dean for Research at the School of Medicine and later as the Interim Senior Associate Dean for Research. In 2024, she was honored with the Dr. Robert Wilmott IMMUNO Chair in Pediatric Research, solidifying her influence in pediatric medicine and molecular biology.
🤝 Contributions and research focus
A pioneer in molecular biology and pediatrics, Dr. Montaño Suárez's research primarily focuses on inborn errors of metabolism and lysosomal storage disorders. Her work has significantly contributed to understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS), a group of rare genetic diseases affecting lysosomal function. Her studies have paved the Lysosomal storage disorders & Brain way for gene therapy and enzyme replacement strategies, offering new hope for patients suffering from these debilitating disorders. Through her extensive research in biochemical genetics and molecular pathways, she has contributed to the development of potential therapeutic interventions, making a lasting impact on metabolic disorder treatments.
🏆 Accolades and recognition
Dr. Montaño Suárez's dedication and contributions to science have been recognized globally. She is a member of the National Academy of Inventors (NAI), reflecting her innovative Lysosomal storage disorders & Brain approach to research and biotechnology. She is also an esteemed member of various international and national societies, including the Society for the Study of Inborn Errors of Metabolism (SSIEM), the American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG), and the American Society of Gene and Cell Therapy (ASGCT). Her groundbreaking work has earned her multiple grants and awards, reinforcing her reputation as a leading researcher in her field.
📚 Impact and influence
Beyond her scientific contributions, Dr. Montaño Suárez has been a mentor and role model for young researchers and students. Her involvement in teaching, research mentoring, and academic leadership has shaped the careers of numerous scientists in molecular biology and pediatric research. As an advocate for interdisciplinary collaboration, she has fostered Lysosomal storage disorders & Brain partnerships between biochemists, geneticists, and pediatricians to advance precision medicine and genetic therapies. Her influence extends beyond the laboratory, as she actively participates in global discussions on rare diseases and genetic research, driving policy changes and awareness initiatives.
🌍 Legacy and future contributions
Dr. Montaño Suárez's legacy lies in her unwavering commitment to medical genetics and pediatric research. Her efforts in gene therapy and molecular diagnostics continue to inspire the next generation of scientists. As she holds prestigious academic and research leadership positions, her future contributions are expected to shape the evolution of personalized medicine and advanced therapeutic approaches for metabolic diseases. Through her research, mentorship, and leadership, she is paving the way for breakthroughs in genetic medicine that will benefit countless patients worldwide.
Notable Publications
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Title: Hydrogel Delivery Device for the In Vitro and In Vivo Sustained Release of Active rhGALNS Enzyme
Author(s): Flanagan M, Gan Q, Sheth S, Schafer R, Ruesing S, Winter LE, Toth K, Silviya Zustiak, Montaño AM
Journal: Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland), 2023
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Title: Growth Patterns in Patients with Mucopolysaccharidosis VII
Author(s): Montaño AM, Różdżyńska-Świątkowska A, Jurecka A, Ramirez AN, Zhang L, Marsden D, Wang RY, Paul Harmatz
Journal: Molecular Genetics and Metabolism Reports, 2023
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Title: DLX6 and MSX1 from Saliva Samples as Potential Predictors of Mandibular Size: A Cross-Sectional Study
Author(s): Cooper RBV, Kim KB, Oliver DR, Armbrecht E, Behrents RG, Montaño AM
Journal: American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, 2022
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Title: Mucopolysaccharidosis Type IVA: Extracellular Matrix Biomarkers in Cardiovascular Disease
Author(s): Montavon B, Winter LE, Gan Q, Arasteh A, Montaño AM
Journal: Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine, 2022
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Title: Epidemiology of Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) in United States: Challenges and Opportunities
Author(s): Puckett Y, Mallorga-Hernández A, Adriana M. Montaño
Journal: Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases, 2021