
KAYLIE ZAPANTA MS CSCS
PhD Candidate, University of Southern California

Hey there!
I'm a doctoral candidate at the University of Southern California, studying under the mentorship of Dr. Beth E. Fisher in the Neuroplasticity and Imaging Laboratory.
My research investigates the role of the Gut-Brain Axis in Parkinson's disease (PD), and potential therapeutic strategies to improve gut health and vagal nerve activity. As a clinical exercise physiologist, my goal is to determine the role exercise can play on the Gut-Brain Axis in neurodegenerative diseases, like PD.
Outside of the research lab, I teach physiology, nutrition, and exercise science- both in the classroom and virtually. I host a podcast and educational YouTube channel, and share the knowledge I have acquired in health sciences via social media.
My overall aim in becoming a research scientist is to disseminate complicated physiologic mechanisms that impact clinical conditions to the general public in a tangible, engaging way!
When I'm not working on research or teaching, I spend my days finding delicious food in the LA area with my husband, running, weightlifting, and spending time at the beach!
GET IN ToUCH!
contact
Biokinesiology Department
University of Southern California
1540 Alcazar CHP 149
Los Angeles, CA 90033
Email: kzapanta@usc.edu