Dr Zsuzsanna Zsengeller | BIDMC/ Harvard University | United States
Dr. Zsuzsanna Kinga Zsengeller is an accomplished physician-scientist and Assistant Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. With a robust background in pulmonary biology, respiratory medicine, and molecular pathology, she has contributed significantly to translational research bridging clinical medicine and laboratory science. Her research primarily focuses on mitochondrial dysfunction, redox biology, and mechanisms underlying preeclampsia and kidney diseases. Over the years, Dr. Zsengeller has combined her clinical knowledge and scientific expertise to drive innovative therapies targeting oxidative stress and genetic pathways, gaining recognition as a leader in maternal-fetal health and renal research.
Profile
Education
Dr. Zsengeller completed her M.D. in General Medicine at the Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical University, Szeged, Hungary, where she built a strong foundation in clinical medicine and research. She later earned her Ph.D. in Medical Science, specializing in microbiology under the mentorship of Prof. Erno Duda. Her extensive postdoctoral training included research in pulmonary biology at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and respiratory diseases at Boston Children’s Hospital, where she developed expertise in molecular genetics, oxidative stress mechanisms, and translational therapeutics.
Experience
Dr. Zsengeller has held diverse academic and professional roles that enriched her clinical and research profile. She served as a staff scientist at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) and a senior scientist at Inotek Pharmaceuticals, contributing to drug discovery programs. Transitioning to academia, she became an instructor at Harvard Medical School before being promoted to Assistant Professor. She has collaborated with biotech companies as a consultant, bridging industry and academic research to foster innovation in therapeutics, particularly for cardiovascular and maternal-fetal health disorders.
Research Interest
Dr. Zsengeller’s research interests revolve around understanding mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and genetic pathways in preeclampsia, nephropathy, and cardiovascular diseases. Her laboratory develops targeted antioxidants and redox-modulating therapies aimed at alleviating cellular damage and improving clinical outcomes. She also investigates genetic mechanisms, such as APOL1 variants in kidney disease, to design precision-medicine-based therapies. Her work integrates molecular biology, pharmacology, and clinical applications, positioning her research at the intersection of innovation and patient-centered care.
Awards
Dr. Zsengeller’s innovative research has earned her prestigious recognitions, including the Harvard University Milton Fund Award for pioneering work on mitochondrial-targeted antioxidants in preeclampsia. She has also received major funding from organizations such as the American Heart Association and the Massachusetts Life Science Center for projects on nitric oxide donors and novel redox therapies. Her contributions have positioned her as a sought-after expert and reviewer for national funding bodies, reflecting her impact on advancing research in maternal-fetal and renal health.
Publication Top Notes
Title: Mitigating Oxidative Stress and Anti-Angiogenic State in an In Vitro Model of Preeclampsia by HY-12, an Organofluorine Hydrazone Antioxidant
Journal: Current Issues in Molecular Biology
Authors: Zsuzsanna K. Zsengellér; Maxim Mastyugin; Adrianna R. Fusco; Bernadett Vlocskó; Maximilian Costa; Coryn Ferguson; Diana Pintye; Réka Eszter Sziva; Saira Salahuddin; Brett C. Young et al.
Title: A Novel Dual-Function Nitric Oxide Donor Therapy for Preeclampsia—A Proof-of-Principle Study in a Murine Model
Journal: Antioxidants
Authors: Diana Pintye; Réka E. Sziva; Lauren A. Biwer; Esilida Sula Karreci; Sonako Jacas; Maxim Mastyugin; Marianna Török; Brett C. Young; Prakash Jagtap; Garry J. Southan; Zsuzsanna K. Zsengeller
Title: A Novel Dual-Function Redox Modulator Relieves Oxidative Stress and Anti-Angiogenic Response in Placental Villus Explant Exposed to Hypoxia—Relevance for Preeclampsia Therapy
Journal: Biology
Authors: Diana Pintye; Réka E. Sziva; Maxim Mastyugin; Brett C. Young; Sonako Jacas; Marianna Török; Saira Salahuddin; Prakash Jagtap; Garry J. Southan; Zsuzsanna K. Zsengeller
Title: Smooth Muscle Mineralocorticoid Receptor Promotes Hypertension After Preeclampsia
Journal: Circulation Research
Authors: Lauren A. Biwer; Qing Lu; Jaime Ibarrola; Alec Stepanian; Joshua J. Man; Brigett V. Carvajal; Nicholas D. Camarda; Zsuzsanna Zsengeller; Geraldine Skurnik; Ellen W. Seely et al.
Title: AP39, a Modulator of Mitochondrial Bioenergetics, Reduces Antiangiogenic Response and Oxidative Stress in Hypoxia-Exposed Trophoblasts
Journal: The American Journal of Pathology
Authors: Ambart E. Covarrubias; Edouard Lecarpentier; Agnes Lo; Saira Salahuddin; Kathryn J. Gray; S. Ananth Karumanchi; Zsuzsanna K. Zsengellér
Conclusion
Dr. Zsengeller exemplifies the qualities of a visionary physician-scientist whose work bridges clinical challenges and molecular innovation. Her dedication to advancing therapies for preeclampsia and renal diseases has significantly influenced translational medicine and inspired collaborations across disciplines. With a strong portfolio of funded projects, publications, and mentorship contributions, she continues to shape the future of maternal-fetal and genetic research. Her commitment to patient-centered innovation and scientific excellence makes her a deserving candidate for prestigious research awards.