John Manak

John Manak is a distinguished Professor in the Department of Biology at the University of Iowa, where he has made significant contributions to the field of genetics and genomics. His research is primarily centered on understanding the genetic underpinnings of human diseases and disorders, with a particular focus on neurological conditions. Utilizing fruit flies as a model organism, Manak has been at the forefront of identifying genetic variations that contribute to disorders such as epilepsy, Alzheimer's Disease, and various neurodevelopmental disorders. One of Manak's notable achievements includes the identification of mutations in the prickle gene, which have been linked to seizure disorders across multiple species, including flies, mice, and humans. This groundbreaking work has provided valuable insights into the genetic mechanisms that underlie these complex conditions and has opened new avenues for potential therapeutic interventions. In addition to his work on neurological disorders, Manak employs advanced genomics methodologies to uncover the genetic causes of a range of human disorders. Techniques such as array Comparative Genomic Hybridization (aCGH) and exome sequencing are integral to his research, allowing for the precise identification of etiologic mutations associated with conditions like cleft lip and palate, renal agenesis, spina bifida, and branchio-oto-renal (BOR) syndrome. His work in this area has been instrumental in advancing our understanding of the genetic basis of these disorders. Beyond his research on human diseases, Manak is also engaged in projects that explore the function of the Myb oncoprotein in fruit flies. This research is crucial for elucidating the role of Myb in cellular processes and its implications in cancer biology. Furthermore, Manak is pioneering studies on the genomics of Oikopleura dioica, a novel model organism that holds promise for advancing our understanding of developmental biology and evolution. John Manak's contributions to the field of biology are marked by his innovative use of model organisms and cutting-edge genomic technologies. His work not only enhances our understanding of genetic disorders but also paves the way for the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. As a leader in his field, Manak continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of scientists, fostering a collaborative and dynamic research environment at the University of Iowa.