Chaoling (Linda) Chen is the Molecular Pharmacology Highlighted Trainee Author for the April 2023 issue. She is a fourth-year PhD candidate in the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology at Virginia Commonwealth University. Her mentor is Dr. Ningjun Li. The Molecular Pharmacology article that earned her the honor of being selected as Highlighted Trainee Author is titled: “Genetic Knockout of Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase (FAAH) Ameliorates Cisplatin-induced Nephropathy in Mice” and is available at: https://doi.org/10.1124/molpharm.122.000618.

Ms. Chen’s research focuses on understanding the role of the endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA) metabolizing enzyme ­­–– fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) in the progression of acute kidney injury to chronic kidney disease, as well as anticancer drug-induced nephrotoxicity. Specifically, she is particularly interested in investigating the renoprotective effects of FAAH substrates, including AEA, palmitoylethanolamide, and oleoylethanolamide, and the underlying mechanisms that mediate their renoprotective effects.

Currently, Ms. Chen continues her work and developing alternative drug delivery approaches to inhibit FAAH activity and enhance the endogenous action of FAAH substrates. By using oral gavage as a delivery method for FAAH inhibitors or nanoparticles of siRNA for kidney-targeted delivery, she hopes to develop more effective and targeted treatments for kidney injury and nephrotoxicity.

The anticipated impact of Ms. Chen’s current research will provide insight into the molecular mechanisms of the endocannabinoids system in kidney disease and bring a valuable additional area of focus to the emerging role of the endocannabinoid system in kidney disease.

Outside the lab, Linda enjoys painting, traveling, ice skating, and skiing. She also enjoys spending time with her family and friends.