Robert Anthony  Marciniak, Ph.D.

Research

Dr. Robert Marciniak's research centers on the basic biology of aging and cancer, emphasizing the interrelationship between the two. Initially we have taken a genetic approach, and have focused on the analysis of a progeriod disorder, Werner syndrome. 

Werner syndrome is a human autosomal recessive disorder characterized by symptoms suggestive of premature aging and a predisposition to cancer. 

Our analysis of the molecular defect that causes Werner syndrome has led to the study of its involvement in telomere processing. We are currently investigating the role that the Werner syndrome helicase (WRN) may play in telomere maintenance and how the loss of the function of this protein and dysfunctional telomere processing - can lead to both symptoms of premature aging and increased cancer incidence.

• Professional Background

  Education

  • 1992 - MD - Medicine - Harvard Medical School
  • 1991 - PhD - Biology - Massachusetts Institute of Technology
  • 1981 - BA - Biochemical Sciences (Summa Cum Laude) - Harvard College
  • Internship - Internal Medicine - Massachusetts General Hospital
  • Clinical Fellowship - Hematology-Oncology - Massachusetts General Hospital
  • Postdoctoral Fellowship - Molecular Biology - Massachusetts Institute of Technology
  • Residency - Internal Medicine - Massachusetts General Hospital

  Appointments

  • 9/2010 - Associate Professor - University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, Cellular & Structural Biology, San Antonio
  • 10/2001 - Staff Physician - South Texas Veterans Healthcare SystemSan Antonio

• Instruction & Training

  • 6/2013 - Present, Membership on Supervising Committee, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
  • 7/2005 - Present, Fellowship Clinical Lecture Series, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
  • 6/2003 - Present, Fellowship Research Lecture Series, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio