Susan J. Hayflick, M.D.

Susan J. Hayflick, M.D., is a Professor of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Pediatrics, and Neurology at Oregon Health & Science University. Her research centers on neurogenetics, specifically molecular neurodegeneration, with a focus on pantothenate kinase-associated neurodegeneration and PLA2G6-associated neurodegeneration. Latest work includes clinical guidelines for PLAN, characterization of a Pank2-/- mouse retinal model, and a natural history study of infantile PLA2G6 neurodegeneration. She also investigates Coenzyme A metabolism, including therapeutic 4′-phosphopantetheine and the role of protein CoAlation in ferroptosis, as well as the phenotypic spectrum of KMT2B-related disorders and COASY-associated diseases. Her translational research bridges biochemistry and neuropathology to advance treatments.