Dr. Ashley Mahoney

Assistant Professor of Biochemistry

B.S. Angelo State University

Ph.D. University of Kentucky

amahoney@bethel.edu, x6257

Research Interests

My research focuses on the deadly Leishmania parasite prominent in tropical regions of the world. This parasite is able to evade the immune system by residing in the lysosome of macrophage, the very cells sent to kill it. Several molecules form a protective coat for the parasite, enabling it to avoid destruction in hostile environments. To establish drug targets, we must first determine the structures of these molecules. The first surface molecule identified was lipophosphoglycan and is essential for the initial infection within a mammalian host. Another molecule of interest is proteophosphoglycan which is less well characterized but theorized to be involved with secondary infections. Determining the carbohydrate structures of these molecules is the primary objective of these projects.

Another interest is developing inquiry based applications for instruction in introductory courses and labs.

Teaching Interests

My principal teaching area is Biochemistry, including advanced courses and introductory nursing courses. I have also taught an interim course called Forensics: The Science of Crime.

Brief Biography

I grew up in Texas and moved to Lexington to attend the University of Kentucky for graduate school. I began my teaching career at Muhlenberg College in Allentown, Pa while my husband Sean finished his law degree at New York University. We moved to the Twin Cities to start his career, and I began teaching at Bethel in the fall of 2001. Our son was born in 2002, and our daughter followed in 2004. We enjoy spending time outdoors especially camping and biking. Our favorite spots include many state and national parks.