Prof. levent dirikolu | Pharmacology and Analytical Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Personal Statement🔬

My laboratory focuses on pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, toxicokinetics, and molecular, clinical, and analytical pharmacology/toxicology. I have been involved in various clinical pharmacology studies investigating the safety, efficacy, PK, and PD of new drugs using animal models. With advanced training in PK modeling and analytical pharmacology/toxicology, I am well-positioned to lead research on “New anti-glioblastoma metabolic compounds with high potential for Blood Brain Barrier penetration.”

B. Ongoing Projects

Stanton Foundation: Mitigating Treatment Costs for Addison’s Disease in DogsPI: Daniel K. Langlois, Co-Is: Levent Dirikolu et al.Period: Dec 20, 2022 – presentFunding: $65,492Louisiana State Racing Commission: Drug TestingPI: Levent DirikoluPeriods:July 1, 2020 – June 30, 2021: $1,442,233July 1, 2021 – June 30, 2022: $1,389,185July 1, 2022 – June 30, 2023: $1,450,000

C. Positions and Honors

Positions and Employment2024-present: Director, Center for Clinical Innovation, LSU SVM, Baton Rouge, LA.2016-present: Professor, LSU SVM, Baton Rouge, LA.2013-2015: Associate Professor, University of Illinois, CVM, Urbana, IL.2007-2013: Assistant Professor, University of Illinois, CVM, Urbana, IL.2003-2006: Assistant Professor, Tuskegee University, CVM, Tuskegee, AL.2001-2002: Post-doctoral Fellow, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY.Other Experience and Professional Memberships2003-present: American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)2007-present: American Academy of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics2003-2006: Director, Core Laboratory, Tuskegee University, CVMNAH, Tuskegee, AL.

Honors

1992: Graduated with honors from Ankara University School of Veterinary Medicine (fourth best student).1997: Honor student program at the University of Kentucky for M.V.Sc (GPA: 3.903).2003: Involved in developing the first FDA-approved therapeutic medications for Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis.2005: Faculty performance award, Tuskegee University, College of Veterinary Medicine.2005: Norden Distinguished Teacher of The Year award, Tuskegee University, College of Veterinary Medicine.2006: Pfizer Animal Health Research Excellence Award, Tuskegee University, College of Veterinary Medicine.2008: Arnold O. Beckman Research Award, University of Illinois, College of Veterinary Medicine.2011: CVM Dr. Erwin Small Teaching Excellence Award in Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois.2011: Pfizer Research Excellence Award, University of Illinois, College of Veterinary Medicine.2012: Dr. Erwin Small Teaching Excellence Award in Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois.2023: Distinguished Faculty Service Award, Louisiana State University, School of Veterinary Medicine.

D. Contribution to Science

My research spans comparative pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, toxicokinetics, and drug metabolism. I aim to establish a globally recognized pharmacology program focused on the safety and efficacy of investigational new drugs. My expertise facilitates the translation of research findings to clinical applications and the use of human medicines in animal health. Future goals include expanding collaboration within the veterinary college and securing extramural funding.Examples of Studies:

Investigation of Pioglitazone for Diabetes and Hepatic Lipidosis in CatsResearch on the efficacy of pioglitazone for treating diabetes and hepatic lipidosis in cats.Key Publications:Clark M, Hoenig M, Ferguson D, Dirikolu L. Pharmacokinetics of pioglitazone in lean and obese cats. J. Vet. Pharmacol. Ther. 2012.Clark M, Thomaseth K, Dirikolu L, Ferguson DC, Hoenig M. Effects of pioglitazone on insulin sensitivity and serum lipids in obese cats. JVIM, 2014.Pharmacokinetics and Cytotoxicity of Lomustine in DogsExamined lomustine’s pharmacokinetics and toxicity in dogs with lymphoma.Key Publications:Chakkath T, Lavergne SN, Fan TM, Bunick D, Dirikolu L. Alkylation and Carbamylation Effects of Lomustine and Its Major Metabolites in Canine Cells. Vet. Sci. 2015.Dirikolu L, McFadden ET, Ely KJ, ElkHoly H, Lehner AF, Thompson K. Clonidine in the horse: Its identification, detection, and clinical pharmacology. Vet. Ther., 2006.Drug Discovery and Design ResearchCollaboration on PK parameters of PAC-1 and other investigational drugs in mouse and dog models.Key Publications:Botham RC, Fan TM, Im I, Borst LB, Dirikolu L, Hergenrother PJ. Dual Small-Molecule Targeting of Procaspase-3. J Am Chem Soc. 2014.Garrett EF, Dirikolu L, Grover GS. Milk and serum concentration of ceftiofur following intramammary infusion in goats. J Vet Pharmacol Ther. 2015.

Evaluation for Best Researcher Award: Levent Dirikolu

Strengths for the Award:

1. Extensive Expertise and Research Impact:
   • Dr. Levent Dirikolu’s extensive background in pharmacology and toxicology is demonstrated through his research in pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, toxicokinetics, and drug metabolism. His work spans various species and includes both clinical and analytical pharmacology, showcasing a broad and deep understanding of his field.
2. High-Impact Research and Publications:
   • His significant contributions are evidenced by numerous publications in reputable journals, including high-impact studies on drugs such as pioglitazone, lomustine, and diclazuril. These studies not only advance scientific knowledge but also address practical issues in veterinary medicine, highlighting his research’s real-world applications.
3. Successful Grant Acquisition and Ongoing Projects:
   • Dr. Dirikolu has secured substantial funding for critical projects, such as drug testing for the Louisiana State Racing Commission and research on mitigating treatment costs for Addison’s Disease in dogs. This track record of successful grant acquisition demonstrates his ability to secure and manage large-scale research projects effectively.
4. Recognition and Honors:
   • His achievements have been acknowledged through various awards, including the Pfizer Research Excellence Award and the Distinguished Faculty Service Award. These accolades reflect his outstanding contributions to research and teaching in veterinary pharmacology.
5. Leadership and Professional Service:
   • As the Director of the Center for Clinical Innovation at LSU and a member of professional organizations like the American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Academy of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Dr. Dirikolu’s leadership and service further underscore his commitment to advancing his field.

Areas for Improvement:

1. Broader Interdisciplinary Collaboration:
   • While Dr. Dirikolu has a strong foundation in veterinary pharmacology, expanding his collaborative efforts to include more interdisciplinary research could enhance the scope and impact of his work. Collaborating with researchers in related fields like human medicine or advanced molecular biology could provide new insights and applications.
2. Increased Focus on Emerging Areas:
   • Incorporating emerging research areas such as personalized medicine or the use of advanced technologies (e.g., machine learning in pharmacokinetic modeling) could further strengthen his research program. Staying at the forefront of these trends could enhance his contributions and relevance in the field.