Our research group utilizes the nematode C. elegans to investigate germ cell immortality: mechanisms that allow germ cells remain eternally youthful as they are transmitted from one generation to the next. We also study how telomerase functions at chromosome termini, as well as the consequences of telomere dysfunction.
Research is aimed at evaluating genetic and epigenetic mechanisms in environmental chemical carcinogenesis. Specific project areas are concerned with toxicity assessments of conazole pesticides, arsenic, and water
disinfection by-products. Human and rodent cells are analyzed for chemical-induced alterations in DNA
methylation and gene expression in combination with chromosome damage, cell toxicity and histopathological
effects. Ultimate goals are to improve the scientific basis of risk assessment, and include evaluations of lifestage
and nutritional susceptibility risk factors which may modulate chemical toxic/carcinogenic effects.
My research focuses on developing biologically based models for the uptake, distribution, metabolism, and biological effects of drugs and chemicals and their application to safety assessments and quantitative health risk assessments. In recent years, my research emphasis has been on developing mathematical descriptions of control of genetic circuitry and the dose-response and risk-assessment implications of these control processes.
Tight junctions are intercellular contacts that form a barrier required for ion transport and organization of cell polarity. Our lab investigates assembly and regulation of TJ proteins and the molecular basis for ion selectivity in epithelia.
Laminar organization of neurons in cerebral cortex is critical for normal brain function. Two distinct cellular events guarantee the emergence of laminar organization-- coordinated sequence of neuronal migration, and generation of radial glial cells that supports neurogenesis and neuronal migration. Our goal is to understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying neuronal migration and layer formation in the mammalian cerebral cortex. Towards this goal, we are studying the following three related questions:
1. What are the signals that regulate the establishment, development and differentiation of radial glial cells, a key substrate for neuronal migration and a source of new neurons in cerebral cortex?
2. What are the signals for neuronal migration that determine how neurons reach their appropriate positions in the developing cerebral cortex?
3. What are the specific cell-cell adhesion related mechanisms that determine how neurons migrate and coalesce into distinct layers in the developing cerebral cortex?
We study arterioles that vascular resistance in healthy kidneys and kidneys of genetic hypertensive animals or those with mutated selected genes. Measurements include renal vascular reactivity in vivo and receptor/calcium signaling in vitro.
