Title: A Generalized Model for Protein Aggregation Kinetics

Graduate Student: Karsten Chu

Abstract: The misfolding and aggregation of misfolded and natively unfolded proteins accounts for a wide variety of debilitating diseases. Through the use of master equations, the kinetics of protein aggregation can be deduced and the key parameters in the aggregation kinetics identified. This paper will explore the curious behaviors of various aggregation parameters with the goal in mind of shortening the duration of the oligomer phase and the maximum concentration of proteotoxic oligomers in order to reduce or eliminate the effects of amyloid diseases.

Advisor: Dr. Jian-Min Yuan