First name,Last name,Preferred title,Overview,Position,Department,Individual
William,Murphy,Professor,"Mammalian comparative genomics, phylogeny, biogeography, and molecular evolution, with a specific emphasis on feline evolutionary genomics, including: gene mapping, sex chromosome genetics, speciation and mechanisms of male hybrid sterility.",Professor,Veterinary Integrative Biosciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n08093092
John,Edwards,Professor,,Professor,Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n09bbd732
Friedhelm,Schroeder,Professor,Intracellular lipid transfer proteins; lipid metabolism; multiphoton imaging of intracellular lipid transport and targeting in living cells and tissues of gene targeted animals.,Professor,Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n157063e2
Elizabeth,Pierson,Professor,"Dr. Pierson's areas of research include plant-microbe interactions, biological control, and sustainable agriculture. She also conducts research related to zebra chip disease of potato, microbe-insect interactions, and terrestrial plant ecology. She teaches the undergraduate course Garden Science and the graduate course Plant-associated Microorganisms, which is available to students in three different graduate programs. Dr. Pierson is active in graduate education, currently serving as a member of the Horticultural Sciences Graduate Program Committee and the MEPS admissions committee and as the advisor for the Horticulture Graduate Council. She also serves as a chair or member of graduate research committees and provides undergraduate laboratory research experience.",Professor||Adjunct Professor,Plant Pathology and Microbiology||Horticultural Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n1757e534
Benjamin,Neuman,Professor,,Professor,Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n193ea580
Lanying,Zeng,Professor,"Living systems make decisions by integrating information from their environments in order to optimize their own fitness. This decision-making process has many intricacies, with a dual nature characterized by stochasticity and determinism, and considerable effort has been dedicated to characterizing the factors contributing to cell-fate heterogeneity. Our primary goal is to determine how multiple environmental and genetic factors, some deterministic and some stochastic, impact developmental outcomes. We choose to study paradigms of cellular decision-making such as bacteriophage lambda lytic-lysogenic development to simplify the complicated nature of cell-fate selection. By distilling the study of a ubiquitous and vital process into basic questions, we hope to generate new insights into how decision-making affects cellular development and differentiation in higher organisms.
We utilize high-resolution live-cell fluorescence microscopy, single-molecule fluorescence microscopy, quantitative data analysis, and simple mathematical modeling to mechanistically dissect the decision-making processes at single-cell/molecule levels. Our favorite biological models are the lysis-lysogeny systems of bacteria and their viruses, like E. coli being infected by paradigm phages lambda and P1. By revisiting established systems with a new, technologically advanced perspective, we are able to reveal previously hidden complexities to better understand the nature of living cells.",Professor,Biochemistry and Biophysics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n1954b72f
Blanca,Lupiani,Professor,"Research in my laboratory focuses on better understanding the molecular mechanisms of pathogenesis of Marek's disease virus, a chicken oncogenic alphaherpesvirus. We study gene function using biochemical techniques and by introducing mutations into the viral genome. The knowledge obtained from these studies is used to develop vaccines to control this critical poultry pathogen. In addition, we are investigating the use of Marek's disease vaccines as viral vectors to control other viral diseases of poultry.",Professor,Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n255741f6
Sanjay,Reddy,Professor,"The long-term goal of my laboratory is to understand the molecular basis of pathogenesis of Marek's disease virus (MDV), a potent oncogenic herpesvirus that causes T-cell tumors in chickens. MDV codes for a protein (Meq), which shares significant resemblance with the Jun/Fos family of transcriptional factors. We have shown that this gene plays a critical role in latency and transformation of T-lymphocytes. Understanding the basic mechanism of viral pathogenesis will aid in the development of improved vaccine. We are also interested in other important poultry disease like avian influenza.",Professor,Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n28054661
Joseph,Sorg,Professor,"My lab is focused on the mechanisms of spore germination and bile acid resistance in Clostridium difficile. C. difficile is a Gram-positive, spore forming, anaerobe that causes infections in people who have undergone antibiotic regimens. Previously, we had shown that certain bile acids promote C. difficile spore germination while others inhibit germination. Bile acids are small molecules made by the liver that help the absorption of fat and cholesterol in the GI tract while also serving as a protective barrier against invading pathogens. Because C. difficile spores use the ratios of bile acids as cues for germination, the actively growing bacteria must have adapted means to avoid their toxic properties. We are currently focused on identifying these factors and the mechanisms by which C. difficile spores germinate.",Professor,Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n2b4d6c14
Herman,Scholthof,Professor,,Professor,Plant Pathology and Microbiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n2c6ec1cb
Dana,Gaddy,Professor,"My laboratory has been engaged in multiple areas of NIH-funded musculoskeletal research since 1996. We were the first to identify the non-steroidal gonadal inhibin hormones in regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal-skeletal axis in mice, and the role of changes in inhibins that signal the onset of menopause (reproductive aging) to the onset of increasing bone turnover. We also demonstrated the anabolic effect of continual Inhibin exposure in normal mice and in bone repair. Our cellular focus on Inhibins and the related factor, Activin A revealed that Activin A suppresses local bone resorption through suppression of osteoclast formation, motility and survival. Our ongoing work is in the area of specific inhibin/betaglycan receptor interactions that mediate the effects on bone cells. We are also greatly interested in improving the low bone mass that we were the first to identify in both humans with Down Syndrome (DS) and in mouse models of DS as a low bone turnover disease. Our current NIH-funded research is working to identify the mechanisms of reduced fracture healing and compromised bone regeneration in Down Syndrome. We have demonstrated the efficacy of both PTH and SclAb in DS, and are now actively testing nutriceuticals to increase bone mass in mouse models of Down Syndrome. The limitations of using mouse models to study bone disease led us to our most recent and exciting endeavors in collaboration with TAMU experts in reproduction and embryo transfer technologies to develop a large platform model of bone disease, using sheep. We have generated the first large animal model of hypophosphatasia (HPP) via high efficiency gene editing of a knock-in point mutation in the ALPL gene, whose musculoskeletal and dental phenotypes are consistent with human HPP. We are now using this model to determine the etiology of mineralization deficiencies, muscle weakness and premature tooth loss by analysis of longitudinal biopsies and analysis of muscle, bone and dental specimens using CT, microCT, mechanical testing, immunohistochemistry, histomorphometry and ex vivo bone marrow cultures.",Professor||Adjunct Professor,Veterinary Integrative Biosciences||Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n2dc10a1a
Suresh,Pillai,Professor,"Dr. Pillai's research focuses on bacterial cell-to-cell signaling, the molecular ecology of pathogens in natural and man-made ecosystems and the use of novel technologies to concentrate, detect, and decontaminate pathogens. His research on molecular microbial ecology and cell-cell signaling is targeted at understanding the complex and hitherto poorly understood relationship between microbial communities and human behavior. His research is aimed at understanding the role that the GI tract-associated microbiome has on human behavior.",Professor,Poultry Science,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n3009b050
Pingwei,Li,Professor,"The research in my lab focuses on elucidating the structural basis of innate immune responses towards microbial nucleic acids. The cGAS/STING pathway plays a central role in innate immunity toward bacterial and viral DNA. cGAS is activated by dsDNA and catalyzes the synthesis of a cyclic dinucleotide cGAMP, which binds to the adaptor STING that mediates the recruitment and activation of protein kinase TBK1 and transcription factor IRF-3. Activated IRF-3 translocates to the nucleus and induces the expression of type I interferons (IFN), an important family of antiviral cytokine. To elucidate the mechanism of cGAS activation, we determined the structures of cGAS in isolation and in complex with DNA. The cGAS/DNA complex structure reveals that cGAS interacts with DNA through two binding sites. Enzyme assays and IFN-? reporter assays of cGAS mutants demonstrate that interactions at both DNA binding sites are essential for cGAS activation. To investigate how cGAMP activates STING, we determined the structures of STING in isolation and in complex with cGAMP. These structures reveal that STING forms a V-shaped dimer and binds cGAMP at the dimer interface. We have also determined the structures of TBK1 in complex with two inhibitors, which show that TBK1 exhibits an I?B kinase fold with distinct domain arrangement. To elucidate the mechanism of IRF-3 recruitment by STING, we determined the structure of a phosphorylated STING peptide bound to IRF-3. To understand how phosphorylation activates IRF-3, we solved the structure of an IRF-3 phosphomimetic mutant bound to CBP, which reveals how phosphorylation induces the dimerization and activation of IRF-3.",Professor,Biochemistry and Biophysics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n31ebad17
Sara,Lawhon,Professor,"My research group studies zoonotic bacterial pathogens and focuses primarily on salmonellosis and staphylococcal infections with emphasis on molecular host-pathogen interactions and antimicrobial resistance. We are particularly interested in how bacteria sense environmental signals, communicate with each other (quorum sensing), cause disease, and resist antimicrobial therapy. These fundamental processes are common to the organisms in which we work. We use basic, applied, and clinical science approaches in our studies. Salmonella, Staphylococcus, and Campylobacter infect a broad range of animal host species as well as humans thus making our work relevant to both human and animal health. In addition to this work, we conduct clinical research projects to support the mission of our veterinary teaching hospital and we provide support to other researchers who need microbiology expertise or access resources for their work. Our work has been funded by the FDA, CDC, and several foundations focused on diseases in veterinary species.",Professor,Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n370f31f1
Luc,Berghman,Professor,"The hallmark of my research career is the development of novel antibodies and applying them toward the development of new immuno-biotechnological tools. My lab has developed an antibody discovery platform in chickens that goes from in silico sequence to epitope-specific chicken IgG (IgY) in less than 3 weeks based on in vivo CD40-targeted immunogen delivery.
Research projects include the study of the immune response in the chicken, especially the function of CD40-positive antigen presenting cells (such as the dendritic cells) in activating the humoral immune response and the development of chicken egg yolk antibodies, monoclonal antibodies and recombinant antibodies for diagnostic, prophylactic and therapeutic purposes. a Dr. Berghman was the recipient of the 2016 Zoetis Fundamental Science Award.",Professor||Professor,Poultry Science||Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n3e016f20
Thomas,Mcdonald,Professor,"My research focuses on environmental chemistry, petroleum geochemistry, and general organic chemistry.",Professor,Environmental and Occupational Health,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n407d0459
Thomas,Meek,Professor,"Marketed drugs have been developed for representatives of all six classes of enzymes, and comprise essential therapies for the treatment of cancers, HIV/AIDS, hypercholesterolemia, and bacterial infections. The availability of known point mutations that are causative of human cancers , as well as the full genomic descriptions of many pathogens, such as parasitic protozoa and infectious bacteria, provides an emerging means to identify new or known enzymes that would constitute potential drug targets. Likewise, the availability of crystal structures of many of these enzymes or their analogues, provides a means to rationally design new inhibitors of enzyme drug targets via the use of molecular modelling and a full understanding of the chemical mechanism of the target enzymes, as an important adjuvant to inhibitor discovery via high-throughput screening.
Our laboratory will initially focus on the detailed study of the mechanisms of cysteine proteases such as cathepsin C, the isocitrate lyase of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and human ATP-citrate lyase, by the use of pre-steady-state and steady-state kinetics, as well as by use of existing crystal structures of these enzymes, to inform the design of both covalent and other mechanism-based modes for the inactivation of these enzymes. We will design and synthesize candidate inhibitors, and test them against these and other enzyme targets, and determine their suitability as potential drug candidates.",Professor,Biochemistry and Biophysics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n41081941
Geoffrey,Kapler,Professor and Chair,"Dr. Kapler's broad research interests are concerned with the replication and transmission of eukaryotic chromosomes. The failure to completely replicate the genome during S phase or partially re-replicate chromosomes leads to genome instability- a hallmark of cancer cells. The central questions investigated in the laboratory are concerned with how replication initiation sites are established in chromosomes and how they are regulated during conventional (G1/S/G2/M) and alternative cell cycles, including endoreplication (gap-S-gap-S...) and locus-specific gene amplification. The current focus of the lab is to use high throughput (nascent strand) DNA sequencing to generate a comprehensive map of replication initiation sites under different physiological conditions.",Professor and Chair||Professor,Cell Biology and Genetics||Biochemistry and Biophysics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n4128afa1
Van,Wilson,Professor,"My area of specialization is the molecular biology of papovaviruses, with a primary focus on how viral proteins modify the host cell environment. Recently, we determined that the viral replication proteins, E1 and E2, are post-translationally modified by addition of 1 or more SUMO moieties. Sumoylation is a widespread modification whose biological functions are only recently becoming understood. Studies are in progress to 1) determine the role of sumoylation in the viral life cycle, 2) evaluate the effect of sumoylation on the structure and activity of the E1 helicase, 3) understand the mechanism by which sumoylation influences E2 stability and transcriptional activity, and 4) determine how sumoylation is modulated by the viral E6 oncoprotein. In addition to the role of sumoylation in the viral life cycle, we are also exploring how sumoylation participates in normal keratinocyte differentiation. We have developed a keratinocyte cell line inducibly expressing a tagged SUMO moiety to facilitate proteomics studies of sumoylation changes and regulation during controlled differentiation.",Professor,Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n4837bbf9
Yinan,Wei,Professor,"We are interested in studying the interaction between microbes and host systems, in the context of antibiotic resistance, infection, and the innate immune response.",Professor,Pharmacy Practice,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n4bb89912
Luis,Garcia,Professor,"I am interested in understanding how behavioral states are regulated at the molecular and genetic level. My lab addresses this complex question in the well-studied nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. Several physical aspects of this worm make it convenient for integrating whole organism system biology studies with genetic/molecular analysis of neurobiology and behavior. C. elegans is an anatomically simple organism; it is 1mm in size, and it contains ~ 1000 somatic cells, a third of which are neurons. The worm is also transparent, and thus every cell can be visualized by light microscopy. Behavioral mutants can be efficiently generated through standard chemical mutagenesis. In addition, gene functions involved in motivational and behavioral regulation can be determined by transgenic techniques.
My lab investigates the interplay between feeding and sex-specific mating behavior to understand how chemo/mechano-sensory and motor outputs are controlled under various physiological conditions. We study male mating by using genetics to de-construct this behavior into its fundamental sensory-motor components. We then use a combination of transgenics, pharmacology, classical genetics and laser microsurgery to understand how individual motor sub-behaviors are coordinated to produce gross behaviors during periods when the animal is food deprived, and when it is food satiated.",Professor,Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n4cd2f794
Helene,Andrews-Polymenis,Professor,"Salmonella is a leading cause of food borne illness, causing an estimated 1.4 million cases per year in the United States. Serovar Typhimurium is responsible for about 26% of these cases (CDC, 1998). The vast majority of Salmonella infections in mammals and birds are the result of infection with S. enterica subspecies I serovars, yet very few genetic factors that are necessary for intestinal persistence in these reservoirs have been described. Intestinal persistence is critical for shedding and transmission of serovar Typhimurium in mammals and birds, yet this phenomenon and interaction of the organism with the host immune system during persistent infection is poorly understood. The long-term goal of our work is to understand the genetic basis of persistence and host range restriction of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium in its mammalian hosts.",Professor,Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n663cc5f1
Guan,Zhu,Professor,"Our laboratory conducts translational research with an ultimate goal to discover new anti-parasitic therapeutics by targeting metabolic enzymes and other molecules critical or essential to the parasite infection, survival and development, such as those involved in the lipid and energy metabolisms and interacting with host cells in Cryptosporidium and other protozoan parasites. Other research areas include functional genomics and molecular evolution of apicomplexan parasites, and parasitic diseases important to the conservation of wild animals.",Professor,Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n6d62f33b
Robert,Burghardt,Professor,"Research in the laboratory is focused on investigating mechanisms by which a variety of biological response modifiers ranging from mechanical signals, hormones and growth factors to environmental chemicals alter cellular signaling pathways and cellular homeostasis.","Professor||Director, Image Analysis Laboratory",School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences||Veterinary Integrative Biosciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n70a3d026
Terry,Thomas,Professor,"My interests are evolutionarily broad and include animals, plants and fungi. A major focus of the lab is the genomic analysis of gene expression programs during plant gene expression programs, particularly during embryogenesis and seed development, and the underlying regulatory mechanisms required for the initiation and maintenance of these programs. This work has illustrated the combinatorial interactions of cis and trans -acting factors that result in specific gene regulatory events. We are also using genomics tools to study the interaction of the rice blast fungus, Magnaporthe grisea , with plant hosts; the circadian control of gene expression; and the development of the vertebrate retina. An additional focal area is the utilization of molecular and cellular approaches for crop improvement. As part of these research activities, we have developed or adapted high throughput genomics approaches to accelerate the gene discovery process and subsequent analysis of gene expression and function.",Professor,Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n79201ac5
Carlos,Gonzalez,Professor,Research in my laboratory encompasses a range of studies that address the genetics of virulence and pathogenicity. The model systems used in our studies are members of the Burkholderia Cepacia Complex (BCC) composed of nine species. The BCC are recognized as significant pathogens in cystic fibrosis patients. We are currently studying secretion systems responsible for export of a cytotoxic protein(s) in both B. cepacia (plant pathogen) and B. cenocepacia (human pathogen) to determine common mechanisms for pathogenicity. In addition we are conducting genomic analysis of BCC bacteriophage.,Professor,Plant Pathology and Microbiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n7a3b6b1f
Arul,Jayaraman,Professor,,Professor,Chemical Engineering,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n7deb8230
Patricia,Klein,Professor,"Dr. Klein's research focuses on developing the genomic tools and resources in crops to enable map base cloning of economically important genes, and to understand the underlying mechanisms that plants use to withstand biotic and abiotic stress. Dr. Klein conducts genetic studies on several plant species including sorghum, rose, and pecan. In 2012, Dr. Klein was awarded the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Dean's Outstanding Achievement Award for excellence as a member of the Sorghum Bioenergy Breeding and Genomics Interdisciplinary Research Team.",Executive Associate Dean||Professor,College of Agriculture and Life Sciences||Horticultural Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n83864ec9
Allison,Rice-Ficht,Senior Associate Vice President for Research,"Studies in the our lab are currently focused on the use of unique biomaterials for controlled release of live and subunit vaccines. Our focus is currently directed to the production of vaccines against human Brucellosisand Q fever, but will be applied to the storage and delivery of other vaccines. A study of specific immune mechanisms and potentiation through controlled releases is underway. Another focus is the study of alpha crystalline structure and function. These unique proteins protect against thermal insult and modulate folding and activity of other proteins",Professor||Senior Associate Vice President for Research,Cell Biology and Genetics||Division of Research,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n84a56c5b
Daniel,Ebbole,Professor,"Development and pathogenesis share the common features of responding to environmental conditions to execute a program of gene expression resulting in new cell types.
An important question in plant pathogenesis is to understanding the functions of pathogen effectors and their host target(s). Fungal effectors play roles in suppressing host defense mechanisms, however, other biotrophic functions, such as manipulating host physiology to promote nutrient acquisition and cell-to-cell movement are possible. Therefore, identification of the full set of fungal proteins secreted during host invasion is a major effort in plant pathology research. Candidate effectors are generally identified by virtue of i) their expression in planta ii) assessing their activity on the host using purified proteins or by manipulating expression iii) detecting the rapid evolution of effector genes due to selective pressure from the host. My lab is using a combination of these approaches to identify and characterize a gene family of putative effectors from Magnaporthe oryzae, the rice blast fungus and define interactions with monocot hosts.",Professor,Plant Pathology and Microbiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n86da3f1b
Michael,Polymenis,Professor,"The promise for the treatment of proliferative disorders, with incalculable potential benefits to human health, has driven basic research into the genetic control of cell division for decades. However, what determines when cells initiate their division remains mysterious. It is as if we are staring at a beautiful engine, with little knowledge about what turns it on. How cells are set off to a new round of cell division, remains as one of the most fundamental, unanswered questions. It is virtually unknown which cellular pathways affect initiation of division, which factors operate within each pathway, the extent of interactions between pathways, and how each pathway is molecularly linked to the machinery of cell division. Our studies aim to answer these questions using baker's yeast. This model organism has a machinery of cell division that is very similar to that of human cells, and it is suited for genetic and biochemical studies.",Professor,Biochemistry and Biophysics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n8c9420b2
James,Cai,Professor,"Dr. Cai's research lies at the interface of single-cell biology, computational statistics, and data science. Current research focuses on using machine learning, network science and quantum computing to better understand the diverse behaviors of cells. Dr. Cai's group develops novel algorithms and analytical frameworks to study single-cell omics data from various types of cells, and the genetic basis of phenotypic variability to identify genetic variants that modulate complex phenotypic traits and susceptibility of genetic disorders.",Professor||Professor||Faculty,Veterinary Integrative Biosciences||Center for Statistical Bioinformatics||Electrical and Computer Engineering,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n8d287cea
David,Threadgill,Professor,"Our laboratory uses the mouse as an experimental genetic model to investigate factors that contribute to inter-individual differences in health and disease. Ourcurrent research activities include the identification and functional characterization of alleles contributing to cancer susceptibility, the function of theErbbgenefamily in development and disease, and the role of genetic variation in response to environmental stimuli. To support these investigations, we also aredeveloping new genetic tools to support mammalian systems genetic approaches to phenotypes with complex genetic and environmental etiologies.",Director||Professor||Professor||Professor,Cell Biology and Genetics||Institute of Genome Sciences and Society||Biochemistry and Biophysics||Nutrition,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n8ee0b54f
Charles,Kenerley,Professor,The long-term goal of my research program is to understand the interactions of Trichoderma species with pathogenic fungi as well as plant hosts to promote crop protection.,Professor,Plant Pathology and Microbiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n8f925111
James,Sacchettini,Professor,"My lab uses X-ray crystallography to better understand the relationship between proteins and ligands. Tiny differences in the structure of a molecule can radically change the interaction between a protein and ligand and we are only begining to understand how many factors play a role in this interaction. By manipulating the individual components of a compound it is possible to create a chemical that binds to the protein better than the natural substrate, and prevent the natural reaction from occurring. This is the basis for rational drug design. Our efforts have lead us to collaborations with other labs and scientists in many disciplines as our approach to directed compound design has applications not only in basic research but also in pesticide development, health research and clinical research.",Professor,Biochemistry and Biophysics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n90385563
Timothy,Phillips,Professor,food safety; molecular toxicology; elucidation of fundamental chemical mechanisms of toxic action/interaction of food-borne carcinogens; mutagens; and developmental toxicants; and development of methods to detect and detoxify foodborne and environmental toxins.,Professor,Veterinary Integrative Biosciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n94eef946
Brian,Shaw,Professor,,Professor,Plant Pathology and Microbiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n94f2923f
Karen-Beth,Scholthof,Professor,"My molecular plant virology research is on a virus complex of Panicum mosaic virus (PMV) and its satellite virus (SPMV). For molecular genetic studies on the PMV/SPMV virus:host interactions we are using the model grass, Brachypodium distachyon. My primary area of research is the historiography of Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) in the early 20th century in the United States.",Professor,Plant Pathology and Microbiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/na173b2b4
Christabel Jane,Welsh,Professor,Mechanisms of disease pathogenesis of neurotropic viruses. Immunological therapies for multiple sclerosis and epilepsy. Neuroimmunological changes in the injured CNS,Professor,Veterinary Integrative Biosciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nbb081247
Heather,Wilkinson,Professor,"We apply evolutionary and ecological genetics approaches and questions to a variety of microbial systems. At the most basic level our overarching goal in my program is to elucidate the genetic basis for adaptation and/or how the patterns of associated phenotypes are distributed in nature or across environmental conditions. My strategy in research is not only to directly test hypotheses central to a specific project, but also, to concomitantly build tools and resources necessary to expand and/or redirect the scope of the project as needed due to opportunity, curiosity or both. Such tools include items like databases, well-characterized libraries of biological materials, and experimental skill-sets among personnel.",Associate Dean of Faculties||Professor,Plant Pathology and Microbiology||Office of the Dean of Faculties,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nbc585f10
Clint,Magill,Professor,"The use of molecular probes is allowing us to gain new insights into fungal plant pathogens and to host responses to potential pathogens. We are currently developing real-time PCR primers for two downy mildews that are considered to be a threat to maize production if introduced into the US. We are also developing PCR-based tags genes for resistance to headsmut, anthracnose, downy mildew and grain mold in sorghum. These molecular tags will be useful for breeding cultivars with more durable resistance and for cloning specific resistance genes. We have also used PCR to clone segments of the cotton and sorghum equivalents of genes that function in known host defense pathways. These clones are being used to compare the rate and timing of induction of each gene in resistant and susceptible lines following inoculation with a pathogen. Genome wide association studies are being used to identify genes associated with disease response (susceptible or resistant) to several pathogens in sorghum.",Professor,Plant Pathology and Microbiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nc127cd28
Paul,Lindahl,Professor,"One of our two current research areas involves iron metabolism in mitochondria. The iron imported into these organelles is assembled into iron-sulfur clusters and heme prosthetic groups. Some of these centers are exported into the cytosol, while others are installed into mitochondrial apo-proteins. All of these processes are regulated in healthy cells, but various genetic mutations giving rise to diseases can cause iron to accumulate (e.g. Friedreich's ataxia) or become depleted (e.g. Sideroblastic anemia). We have developed a biophysical approach involving Mossbauer, electron paramagnetic resonance, and electronic absorption spectroscopy, to study the entire iron content of intact mitochondria in healthy and genetically altered cells. This Systems Biology approach allows us to characterize the ""iron-ome"" of mitochondria at an unprecedented level of detail. We are also using analytical tools (e.g. liquid chromatography) to identify complexes that are involved in ""trafficking"" iron into and out of the organelle.
Our other research area involves mathematical modeling of cellular self-replication on the mechanistic biochemical level. We collaborate on this multidisciplinary NSF-sponsored project with a mathematician at the University of Houston (Professor Jeffrey Morgan). We have developed a modeling framework that facilitates such modeling efforts, and have designed a number of very simple and symbolic in silico cells that exhibit self-replicative behavior. Our minimal in silico cell model includes just 5 components and 5 reactions. A second generation model includes a more realistic mechanism of mitotic regulation. One novel aspect of our approach is that cellular concentration dynamics impact (and are impacted by) cellular geometry. By minimizing membrane bending energies, we are now calculating cell geometry during growth and division. Our results suggest that the ""pinching"" observed in real cells is enforced by cytoskeletal structures.",Professor,Chemistry,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nc9ce621b
Vytas,Bankaitis,Professor,"My laboratory is interested in the regulatory interfaces between novel lipid-mediated signal transduction pathways and important cellular functions. The focus of our work is the phosphatidylinositol/ phosphatidylcholine transfer proteins (PITPs), a ubiquitous but enigmatic class of proteins. Ongoing projects in the laboratory derive from a multidisciplinary approach that encompasses biochemical characterization of novel members of the metazoan PITP family, and the application of genetic, molecular and biophysical approaches to detailed structural and functional analyses of PITPs.",E.L. Wehner-Welch Foundation Chair||Professor||Professor,Cell Biology and Genetics||Biochemistry and Biophysics||Chemistry,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ncff8dc21
Qi,Zheng,Professor,,Professor,Epidemiology and Biostatistics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ndebdc652
Michael,Manson,Professor,"Bacteria have a limited behavioral repertoire. Their most conspicuous behavior is chemotaxis - the pursuit of molecules that are favorable to acquire and the avoidance of chemicals that are best to avoid. The simplicity of bacterial motility and chemotaxis and the amenability of the model species Escherichia coli to genetic, biochemical and physiological manipulation have facilitated rapid advances in understanding the molecular mechanisms of biological energy conversion and signal transduction.
Our laboratory studies the inputs and outputs of chemotaxis. Ligands interact with the periplasmic receptor domain of a chemotactic signal transducer that spans the cell membrane. This interaction is converted into an intracellular signal that is communicated to the flagella. Molecules can be sensed either by binding directly to a receptor or by first interacting with a periplasmic binding protein, which then interacts with a receptor.",Professor||Professor,Biology||Biochemistry and Biophysics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ne190242a
Julian,Leibowitz,Professor,We have two projects in my lab. The first project is focused on identifying evolutionarily conserved RNA secondary structures in the coronavirus RNA genome and functionally examining their role in viral replication through reverse genetic and biochemical approaches. We have previously done this for a number of RNA secondary structures contained within the 5? and 3? regions of the genome and shown that they function as cis-acting elements in replication. Studies in my laboratory have identified a structurally dynamic region of the 5'UTR that interacts with the 3'UTR to facilitate transcription.
A second project in my laboratory has been to develop a reverse genetic system for MHV-1. In collaboration with investigators in Toronto and Pennsylvania my laboratory has demonstrated that MHV-1 infection of susceptible mice provides a safe and convenient rodent model for severe coronavirus infections such as SARS and MERS. The development of a reverse genetic system will allow us to investigate the contributions of individual viral genes to the pathogenesis of the severe pulmonary disease caused by this virus.,Professor||Professor,Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology||Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ne2185aa0
Jeffrey,Cirillo,Professor,"Our laboratory is interested in the pathogenesis of bacterial lung infections particularly tuberculosis and Legionnaires' disease. We are examining the virulence mechanisms of bacteria using cellular, molecular and genetic techniques. Our primary research goal is to obtain a better understanding of the roles of the pathogen and host in disease. These studies should contribute to our understanding of host-pathogen interactions at the molecular and cellular level that can be used for prevention, treatment and diagnosis. We hope that through a better understanding of the mechanisms by which these organisms cause disease we can prevent some, if not all, of these infections in the future.",Professor||Director,Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology||Center for Airborne Pathogen Research and Tuberculosis Imaging,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ne8bc1122
Ryland,Young,Professor,"Most bacterial viruses (phages) cause lysis of their host cell to release the progeny virions. Large phages elaborate an enzyme (""endolysin"") to degrade the cell wall and also a small membrane protein (""holin""). The holin accumulates in the membrane and then, at a precisely scheduled time, suddenly forms a hole to allow release of endolysin through the cytoplasmic membrane to gain access to the wall. We use molecular genetics and biochemistry to study how this small protein is able to act as a molecular ""clock"" and punch holes in membranes. Small phages make single proteins which cause host lysis in a different way. This strategy is to target the host cell wall synthesis machinery; that is, the virus makes a ""protein antibiotic"" that causes lysis in the same way as antibiotics like penicillin by inhibiting an enzyme in the multi-step pathway of murein biosynthesis. Thus, when the infected cell tries to divide, it blows up, or lyses, because it can't make the new cell wall between the daughter cells. Remarkably, each of three different, small phages blocks a different step in the pathway. These small lysis proteins are models for a completely new class of antibacterial antibiotics. Also, the E. coli SlyD protein is required for this mode of lysis in one case. SlyD is a member of an ubiquitous family of proteins related to human ""immunophilins,"" the targets of immune-suppression drugs. We study SlyD to learn about the role of this class of proteins in biology.",Professor,Biochemistry and Biophysics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nea775348
Roger,Smith,Professor,Application of flow cytometry to study of animal disease and clinical veterinary medicine; core flow cytometry laboratory.,Professor,Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nefd6ee54
Clare,Gill,Professor,"Dr. Gill teaches an undergraduate senior seminar course and a graduate course in applied animal genomics. Her primary research interest is in development and application of efficient molecular tools for comparative genomics. She is also the principal investigator of the McGregor Genomics Project, which is a collaborative effort to map genes for production efficiency in cattle.",Professor||Executive Associate Dean and Associate Dean for Research,College of Agriculture and Life Sciences||Animal Science,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nf0375f36
Joerg,Steiner,Professor,"My veterinary career has mainly focused on two aspects, patient care and clinically-relevant research. As a veterinary clinician and clinical teacher I am exposed to a wide variety of canine and feline patients with complex medical conditions. These patients serve as a constant source of new clinical problems that beckon to be studied further. Sometimes these studies are merely clinical, relating to characterization of an uncommon condition, diagnosis of a difficult-to-diagnose condition, or a novel therapeutic approach to a well-described condition. In other instances studies that are spurred by clinical cases are more basic-science based, utilizing state-of-the-art technologies to further evaluate the etiology or pathogenesis of a disease. In some instances, studies may provide comparative aspects related to experimental animals, such as rodents or primates, or even to human patients with similar conditions. I believe that my role as a mentor can be unique in that I can help graduate students bridge the gap between science and clinical aspects and between veterinary and human medical interests - giving us further opportunities to advance the concept of one-health.","Professor||Director, Gastrointestinal Laboratory",School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences||Small Animal Clinical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nf4de66a0
Matthew,Sachs,Professor,"Understanding the mechanisms by which upstream open reading frames (uORFs) in mRNA transcripts control gene expression is currently the major focus of my laboratory. A substantial component of this work is focused on the uORF-encoded fungal arginine attenuator peptide (AAP). The major goal of this work is to understand the mechanism by which a nascent peptide encoded by this uORF controls the movement of ribosomes on mRNA and regulates gene expression. Control mechanisms mediated by uORFs and nascent peptides exist in mammals, fungi, plants, viruses, and bacteria, but relatively little is known of the molecular details of such control. The AAP is encoded by a uORF in the 5?-leader regions of mRNAs specifying the first enzyme in fungal arginine (Arg) biosynthesis. Synthesis of the AAP rapidly reduces gene expression in response to Arg. AAP-mediated regulation is observed in vivo in both Neurospora crassa and Saccharomyces cerevisiae and in vitro, using fungal, plant and animal extracts. The nascent AAP causes the ribosome to stall when the concentration of Arg is high.",Professor,Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nfe74574c