Katherine (Katie) Kittell

Undergraduate Researcher - Co-Mentored with Dr. Dave Bridges

kkittell@umich.edu

I am an undergraduate student at the University of Michigan majoring in neuroscience. I began working with the Kaczorowski Lab through my work in Dave Bridges Lab, where I investigated the relationship between type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease. In this project, I analyzed how genetic differences modify glucose tolerance and its relationship to cognition. 

Alzheimer’s disease is not simple. It is shaped by multiple genetic, environmental, and comorbid factors, creating many possible pathways for intervention. My goal is to further our understanding of how these processes contribute to disease pathogenesis and use this knowledge to identify more effective therapeutic targets.

Currently, I am investigating the relationship between sleep deprivation and Alzheimer’s disease, with a focus on how sleep-related genetic factors may protect against disease pathology and improve cognition. 

In my spare time, I enjoy baking, watercolor painting, and watching movies with friends!