Diane R. Bielenberg, PhD

Dr. Bielenberg is an academic research scientist, and her studies have focused on elucidating roles of the Neuropilin (NRP) receptor family in physiological and pathological processes for the last 25 years. Her laboratory has uncovered the necessity for NRP1 and/or NRP2 in the carcinogenesis process and the dissemination of cancer cells. They have discovered novel functions of NRPs in vascular and visceral smooth muscle controlling contraction and relaxation. The Bielenberg Laboratory has revealed essential functions of NRP2 in vascular permeability, angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis, and melanoma progression. Most recently, her laboratory has elucidated the unique immunosuppressive role of NRP2/SEMA3F in T cells regulating tumor surveillance.   

Her translational research impacts diseases such as obesity, cancer, lymphedema, hypertension, incontinence, motility disorders, and immune tolerance. Scientific productivity and consistent funding from NCI, NHLBI, NIAID, NIDDK, NEI, foundations, and industry have contributed to her sound publication record (105 total publications, 8735 citations, h-index 48).