First name,Last name,Preferred title,Overview,Position,Department,Individual
Peter,Murano,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Nutrition,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n01908cad
Zhilong,Yang,Associate Professor,"The overarching research goal of the Yang laboratory is to understand the mechanisms governing viral replication, with the rationale that the discoveries will expand the knowledge of both viruses and their hosts, and facilitate the development of novel strategies to combat viral and non-viral diseases. A parallel goal of Yang lab is to provide a highly supportive environment to train the next generations of scientists. The ongoing research focuses on how viruses interact with two cellular housekeeping processes: protein synthesis and metabolism using vaccinia virus as the research model. Vaccinia virus is the prototype poxvirus. Poxviruses significantly impact public health, with many presently causing morbidity and mortality in humans and many economically important animals, including deadly zoonotic pathogens (e.g., monkeypox virus). In addition, despite the eradication of smallpox, one of the most (if not the most) devastating diseases in human history, smallpox resurgence remains a serious biothreat. Poxviruses are also widely developed as veterinary and human vaccine vectors and as cancer treatment agents. Poxviruses provide numerous precious tools to understand many aspects of cell biology and dissect complex life processes, as their large DNA genomes encode hundreds of genes that engage many key nodes of cellular life. Yang's research integrates biochemical, molecular, and omics approaches. Taking advantage of their in-depth knowledge of the poxvirus replication and virus-host interactions, the Yang lab also develops vaccinia virus-based utilities and anti-virals.",Associate Professor,Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n02daa01b
Gregory,Reeves,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Chemical Engineering,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n05d3cae9
Christopher,Seabury,Associate Professor,"Mammalian molecular genetics, genomics, and population genetics; animal disease genomics; utilization of population and quantitative genetics to elucidate host loci and relevant variation influencing differential susceptibility to disease, adaptability, and feed efficiency; next generation sequencing and de novo genome assembly as a mechanism to enable novel research programs in non-model mammalian and avian species of interest.",Associate Professor,Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n08037241
Carolyn,Cannon,Associate Professor,"Our goal is to develop novel, non-toxic antimicrobial formualtions with efficacy against gram-positive and gram-negative multi-drug resistant pathogens.",Associate Professor,Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n0b3870aa
Zina,Trost,Associate Professor,"My research interests fall into three broad, overlapping categories:
1) First, I am interested in cognitive, affective, and behavioral actors that may contribute to development of chronic pain/disability or facilitate positive adjustment following physical injury. Currently my work focuses on the role of perceptions of injustice regarding one's pain, injury, or circumstance. I am especially interested in the intersection of injustice perceptions with larger societal inequities, such as discrimination.
2) Second, I am interested in how we understand the pain and suffering of others, and in particular whether individuals (e.g., healthcare providers) may make decisions based on unconscious bias regarding patient characteristics, such as gender, weight, or race.
3) Finally, my work applies emerging virtual technologies to pressing issues in chronic pain, disability, and rehabilitation, including the above issues. My currently funded research employs a ""virtual walking"" paradigm to alleviate chronic neuropathic pain in individuals with spinal cord injury. We are also using haptic virtual reality to restore touch perception among individuals with 'discomplete' SCI. These are Department of Defense-funded international and multisite projects.",Associate Professor,Psychological and Brain Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n0bcc8790
Yi,Xu,Associate Professor,"Our current research activities focus on understanding the pathogenic mechanism of Streptococcus gallolyticus subsp. gallolyticus (Sgg). Sgg is a gram-positive opportunistic pathogen that causes life-threatening bacteremia and infective endocarditis (IE). It is also strongly associated with colorectal cancer (CRC). My lab was the first to demonstrate that Sgg actively promotes the development of colon tumors, elevating a long-stranding clinical association to a functional causal role of Sgg in tumor development. Despite its medical importance, the pathogenic mechanism of Sgg remains poorly understood. Our recent studies have demonstrated that a type VII secretion system of Sgg plays a key role in pathogenesis. Currently we are interested in understanding the mechanism underlying following key steps in Sgg pathogenesis: 1) colonization of the intestinal epithelium, 2) modulation of intestinal homeostasis in normal and tumor-bearing colons, and 3) dissemination from the gastrointestinal tract to the circulatory system.
Keywords: bacterial pathogenesis, infectious diseases, virulence, colorectal cancer, microbiome, microbiota, type VII secretion system, gastrointestinal tract",Associate Professor,Institute of Biosciences and Technology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n0c22439a
Lucas,Timmins,Associate Professor,"Throughout my research career, I have been committed to applying engineering mechanics to address prevalent challenges in cardiovascular biology, physiology, and medicine. The broad scope of my research program is to understand the interactions between mechanics and cardiovascular disease, focusing on translating efforts and establishing disruptive technologies that advance patient management. I leverage my unique expertise in solid and fluid mechanics, across both the experimental and computational domains, to comprehensively characterize the mechanical stimuli vascular tissues are subjected to in the setting of health and disease. The two broad objectives of my research are 1) to advance the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of cardiovascular disease in the clinical setting and 2) to understand how mechanics drive the structure, function, and remodeling of vascular tissues.",Associate Professor||Associate Professor||Associate Professor,School of Engineering Medicine||Engineering Medicine||Biomedical Engineering,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n0fa92a82
Hongmin,Qin,Associate Professor,"Live bioreactor for synthetic biology
The lab is developing live bioreactors to synthesize products of commercial value. The system we are developing is capable of resisting contamination, and withstanding harsh conditions. We are translating the technology developed for potential industrial usages.
The biogenesis of a cilium/flagellum
Our lab is interested in the conceptual frameworks that govern organelle biogenesis and the corresponding regulations. The current main research effort in our lab is to understand. Cilia and flagella are microtubule-based appendages extending from the basal body of almost all eukaryotic cells, and are classified as either motile or primary. Motile cilia or flagella such as Chlamydomonas flagella, sperm flagella and respiratory tract epithelial cell cilia are responsible for movement or generation of fluid flow. In contrast, primary cilia are non-motile organelles that are critically involved in visual, olfactory and auditory signal transduction and play key roles in regulation of gene expression, development and animal behavior. Ciliary defects are linked to ciliopathies such as polycystic kidney disease, nephronophthisis, retinal degeneration, situs inversus, hydrocephalus, polydactyly and obesity. Our lab uses a combination of biochemistry, cell biology, and genetics approaches to understand the principles of ciliogenesis and its regulation.
Flagellar axoneme structure and motility
The waveform of cilia is conserved, no matter whether the cilia are on green algae Chlamydomonas or mammalian epithelia found in the airways, the uterus and fallopian tubes, the efferent ducts of the testes, and the ventricular system of the brain. These motile cilia beat with a conserved planar asymmetrical waveform. We are beginning to learn how the asymmetry of the waveform is established and the mutant analyses are underway.",Associate Professor,Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n11e70177
Reginald,Taylor,Associate Professor,"Consistent with his clinical education in orthodontics, Dr. Taylor is keenly interested in the organization and development of the extracellular matrix (ECM) of craniofacial structures, specifically, the periodontal ligament (PDL). He hopes to gain additional insight into the biological processes that when activated by a sustained force applied to a tooth results in orthodontic tooth movement. He also hopes to determine if there are different mechanisms related to the magnitude of the applied force, and if so, begin to tease out these magnitude-determined differences. This will, ultimately, help us as orthodontists utilize the most biologically efficient force systems for orthodontic tooth movement.",Associate Professor||Associate Dean for Graduate and Professional Programs||Director of Pre-doctoral ORthodontics,School of Dentistry||School of Dentistry||Orthodontics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n12adac6c
Daniel,Jones,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n14141cf6
Rodolfo,Aramayo,Associate Professor,"My current research primarily focuses on understanding the organization, distribution, and comparison of information in Biological Systems. Our work encompasses two key levels of investigation:
Molecular Genetics: We employ the filamentous fungus Neurospora crassa as a model organism to uncover and comprehend the intricate molecular components responsible for sequence-based comparisons between homologous chromosomes, leading to the initiation of Meiotic Silencing, a phenomenon driven by RNA-mediated processes. Currently, our primary focus centers on the exploration of whether genes recognized for their significance in Meiotic Transvection/Silencing also contribute to the occurrence of Repeat Induced Point Mutation (RIP) phenomena.
Computational Analysis: We are developing novel computational pipelines dedicated to detecting sequence variations within related genomes. We are particularly intrigued by the prospect of simplifying (i.e., digitizing) the information present in DNA, RNA, and Proteins so as to simplify its manipulation and analysis. We think that digitizing emerging genomic data will not only enable us to use this data effectively but also to integrate it into Artificial Intelligence, Data Clustering, and Image Recognition Algorithms, in ways not done before. We posit that this process of converting biological features into digital equivalents has the potential to simplify genomic information, making it easier to uncover previously unnoticed patterns through complex computational comparisons. This approach has already yielded promising results by revealing unexpected informational patterns across various organisms' chromosomes. We believe that it will streamline and enhance our ability to comprehend different cellular and organismal states. Moreover, it holds significant promise in revolutionizing our understanding of diseases, particularly Cancer and Metagenomics. This informational perspective also contributes to our comprehension of genome evolution, especially in the field of comparative genomics and microbial metagenomics.",Associate Professor,Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n14287b36
Robert,Tsai,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Institute of Biosciences and Technology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n17ba2cd2
Michael,Golding,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n19ac3c74
Jongwha,Chang,Associate Professor,"As a health outcome researcher, and applied statistician, my research generally focuses on examining issues related to effectiveness of medical care delivery and health outcomes in chronic disease and cancer. My research work in this context has examined diverse topics related to economic evaluation of pharmaceuticals, risk adjustment of health outcomes, quality of primary care, medication and patient safety, applied statistical methodology in health services evaluation, and patient-centered outcomes evaluation.",Associate Professor,Irma Lerma Rangel School of Pharmacy,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n1a7beafe
Tatyana,Igumenova,,"My laboratory is broadly interested in understanding the structural basis of signal transduction events that occur at the membrane surface. These events are mediated by signaling proteins that reversibly associate with membranes in response to binding second messengers, such as Ca2+ ions, diacylglycerol, and phosphoinositides. One of the key kinases regulating these signal transduction pathways is the Protein Kinase C (PKC) family. Aberrant levels of PKC expression or activity have been implicated in a large number of human diseases, such as cancer, cardiac failure, Alzheimer's disease, and diabetes. Despite the significance of PKC in signal transduction and human health, the structural and dynamical basis of its activation upon binding to lipid membranes remains elusive.",Associate Professor,Biochemistry and Biophysics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n1c6e6632
Kayla,Bayless,Associate Professor,"My laboratory conducts research in two areas of molecular and cellular medicine: the mechanism through which primary human endothelial cells invade into 3D matrices, and communication between invading endothelial cells and their surrounding 3D collagen matrix.",Associate Professor,Cell Biology and Genetics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n1dd3799c
Taylor,Ware,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Biomedical Engineering,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n1f43628f
W. Brian,Saunders,Associate Professor,"Over the past six years I have established a fully equipped and independent cell biology lab. We have developed techniques to isolate and characterize adult MSCs from a variety of species (humans, dogs, pigs, and rabbits). We are currently defining the molecular mechanisms of human and canine MSC invasion in three-dimensional collagen matrices, as well as the role of the extracellular matrix in differentiation of MSCs.",Associate Professor,Small Animal Clinical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n2732f0d9
Xiaoning,Qian,Associate Professor,"Xiaoning Qian's research interests include machine learning and Bayesian experimental design as well as their applications in computational network biology, genomic signal processing, and biomedical signal and image analysis. He is affiliated with the Center for Bioinformatics and Genomic Systems Engineering and the Center for Translational Environmental Health Research at Texas A&M.",Associate Professor,Electrical and Computer Engineering,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n2c8e24e9
Natalie,Johnson,Associate Professor,"My research focuses on evaluating exposure to air pollutants in susceptible populations, such as pregnant women and children, and investigating mechanisms underlying prenatal air pollution exposure and offspring respiratory dysfunction.",Associate Professor,Environmental and Occupational Health,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n2d4035f8
Raffaella,Righetti,Associate Professor,My research focuses on ultrasound methods for imaging the mechanical behavior of soft and hard tissues and multi-modal biomedical imaging processing and analysis methods.,Associate Professor,Electrical and Computer Engineering,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n2d847d81
Luis,Tedeschi,Professor,"Dr. Tedeschi conducts research on energy and nutrient requirements of grazing and feedlot animals, growth biology and bioenergetics, chemical composition and kinetics of fermentation of feeds, modeling and simulation of decision support systems, and evaluation of models (http://nutritionmodels.tamu.edu). He has collaborated with several researchers overseas to develop models for small ruminants (sheep and goats). He utilizes System Dynamics concepts applied to nutrition.",Associate Professor||Professor,Animal Science||Nutrition,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n387904d6
Mary,Nabity,Associate Professor,"My research interests involve the pathogenesis of kidney disease and investigation of novel biomarkers in dogs and cats with chronic kidney disease and their relation to conventional measures of renal function. In our lab, we are actively exploring urinary proteins, mRNAs, and miRNAs in dogs with naturally occurring glomerular disease in order to determine their ability to serve as early markers of renal disease, specific markers of certain types of renal disease and disease progression, and targets for novel therapies. Our goal is to improve our understanding of the development and progression of kidney disease and to develop and validate testing methods in order to more effectively diagnosis and monitor renal disease in companion animals and humans.",Associate Professor,Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n39da878a
Alistair,McGregor,Associate Professor,"Our lab studies various herpesviruses but the major focus of our research is on the study of cytomegalovirus (CMV) which is a common pathogen that establish a life long infection in a mainly latent state. CMV causes disease in transplant patients and is a leading cause of congenital disease in newborns where the virus crosses the placenta and infects the fetus in utero. Congenitally infected newborns can have severe disease that causes cognitive impairment, hearing loss and vision problems. There is no vaccine against congenital CMV and our research seeks to understand the disease and develop interventions strategies.",Associate Professor,Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n3de7f8e8
Ryang,Lee,Associate Professor,"Our group specializes in determining the cellular and molecular mechanisms of beneficial effects of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in diseases that include heart disease, diabetes, and peritonitis. The goal is to develop a cellular therapy for human diseases either (a) with adult stem/progenitor cells (MSCs), or (b) with therapeutic factors that MSCs produce in response to signals from injured tissues.",Associate Professor,Cell Biology and Genetics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n3ffcdcc1
Gonzalo,Rivera,Associate Professor,"My laboratory is interested in the role played by cytoskeletal remodeling in development and disease, particularly, angiogenesis and tumor progression and invasion. The long-term goal of our research is to understand how extracellular signals that alter tyrosine phosphorylation and the metabolism of inositol phospholipids modulate actin dynamics and cell motility. Areas of interest include the biogenesis of actin-based structures of invasion, intracellular trafficking, and three-dimensional tissue morphogenesis in vitro. Our research employs a combination of molecular genetics, cell biology, proteomics, and high-resolution optical imaging.",Associate Professor,Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n47ddea15
Louisbruno,Ruest,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Biomedical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n4ba9bf37
Michelle,Lawing,Associate Professor,"Dr. Lawing is an Associate Professor in the Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology. She is primarily interested in using methods and models from modern ecology and evolutionary biology combined with evidence from the fossil record to inform our understanding of how species and communities respond to environmental change through time. Her work includes the investigation of geographic, evolutionary, and morphological responses of species and communities to environmental changes in the Late Pleistocene and throughout the Miocene to present. She is involved in developing species distribution models (SDM), geometric morphometric methods (GMM), and phylogenetic comparative methods (PCM). Before becoming an Assistant Professor, Dr. Lawing was a postdoctoral fellow at the National Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis (NIMBioS). She earned a PhD double major in Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior and in Geological Sciences from Indiana University, Bloomington.",Associate Professor,Ecology and Conservation Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n4d1c74b5
Arthur,Laganowsky,Associate Professor,"A long-term research goal of our group is to determine the molecular basis behind protein-lipid interactions and how these interactions can modulate the structure and function of membrane proteins, including their interactions with signaling molecules. What determines the selectivity of membrane proteins towards lipids, and the coupling between lipid binding events and function remains a key knowledge gap in the field; one that if addressed will significantly advance our understanding of how lipids participate in both normal and pathophysiological processes of membrane proteins. Therefore, there is a critical need to expand our fundamental knowledge in this emerging field by applying and developing innovative approaches to elucidate how lipids modulate the structure function of membrane proteins. To this end, we are studying a number of ion channels, receptors and other types of membrane proteins.",Associate Professor,Chemistry,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n542411e4
Paul,Straight,Associate Professor,"Our goal is to understand how microorganisms interact in complex communities. Specifically, we study how small molecules produced in a microbial community affect the growth, development and metabolic output of the organisms. We use a combination of microbiology, genetic, genomic, and biochemical approaches to dissect complex interspecies interactions. Currently, our research focuses on the interactions of the soil bacteria Bacillus subtilis and members of the genus Streptomyces, known for their prolific production of bioactive small molecules and development of aerial structures and spores.",Associate Professor,Biochemistry and Biophysics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n5540637b
Mahua,Choudhury,Associate Professor,"Epigenetics, diabetes, obesity, pregnancy, preeclampsia, biomarker",Associate Professor,Nutrition,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n55b81876
Phanourios,Tamamis,Assistant Professor,,Associate Professor,Chemical Engineering,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n5673e0c8
M,Benson,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Biomedical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n58e9bd13
Scott,Dindot,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n5a986b57
Yava,Jones-Hall,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n5b5cb520
Narendra,Kumar,Associate Professor,"1. Obesity associated metabolic syndrome (MetS) is both a US and a worldwide epidemic and a major burden to healthcare system. Chronic low-grade inflammation (CLGI) is a well-established characteristic of the obese-human condition and though, the gastrointestinal (GI) mucosa is the first tissue that interacts with dietary components and luminal microbiota both of which are known to regulate obesity, the research on the role of GI-mucosa in obesity associated MetS is lacking. Findings from my lab support a key role of Janus kinase 3 (Jak3), a non-receptor tyrosine kinase, in intestinal and systemic CLGI associated obesity and diabetes in both an animal-model and in humans. Our publications, and unpublished data indicate that Jak3 regulates; colonic and systemic CLGI, and multiple symptoms of metabolic syndrome. Our goal is to determine the associated underlying mechanisms. Our current focus is on tissue-specific roles of Jak3 and associated signaling complexes in CLGI-onset as a precursor for; (a) obesity and diabetes, (b) Obesity and Alzheimer's disease, and (c) inflammatory bowel disease.
2. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that includes Crohn's disease and Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory condition of gastrointestinal tract. Annual death from these diseases are over 70,000.00, and the incidences of new cases have been rising over the years. Because the repairs of intestinal mucosa (Restitution) are compromised during IBD, the research focus of our lab is to dissect the roles of intestinal epithelial, intestinal immune cells and gut microbiota in mucosal restitution. Our lab was pioneered the functions of Jak3 in intestinal epithelial mucosa. We show that IL-2 (a cytokine produced during intestinal inflammation) promotes mucosal wound repair through Jak3 complexed with villin, ShcA, and ?-catenin. Studies are underway to define the tissue-specific Jak3-mediated signaling pathways that regulate CLGI as a precursor for the onset of IBD.",Associate Professor and Director of Graduate Studies||Associate Professor,Pharmaceutical Sciences||Pharmaceutical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n5bcfc45e
Jason,Karpac,Associate Professor,"The Karpac Lab is broadly interested in the origins of signaling networks that provide animals with metabolic flexibility, and thus the capacity to balance energy homeostasis. These ancient networks, under intense evolutionary pressure, both respond to and are shaped by diverse inputs, such as nutrient availability, pathogens, and aging. We primarily use the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster as a genetic model to investigate the function and integration of these signaling networks at multiple levels of biological organization: from molecules, to cells and tissues, to inter-organ communication, to organismal physiology and aging.",Associate Professor,School of Medicine,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n5d657b49
Kevin,Myles,Professor,,Associate Professor,Entomology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n5d73717b
Paul,de Figueiredo,Associate Professor,I have strong interests in elucidating the molecular mechanisms that mediate interactions between the intracellular bacterial pathogen Brucella spp. and host cells.,Associate Professor,Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n5e6f7b12
Jason,Gill,Associate Professor,"Dr. Gill's major research focus is the biology and application of the viruses of bacteria, called bacteriophages or simply phages. Phages are the most abundant organisms on Earth, and they are found ubiquitously in water, soil, and as part of the microbial flora of animals and plants. As natural predators of bacteria, phages are attractive agents for the control of pathogenic bacteria in humans, animals, and foods. The increasing prevalence of antibiotic resistance in pathogenic bacteria, and the desire to curtail use of antibiotics in animal agriculture, has sparked interest in the use of phages as antimicrobials. Research in Dr. Gill's lab encompasses phage genomics, basic phage biology and the applications of phages in real-world settings.",Associate Professor,Animal Science,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n6277ae7f
Gary,Kunkel,Associate Professor,"An important step to control the amount of RNA or protein in particular types of cells is at the level of transcription of genes. Our lab studies a multifunctional vertebrate transcriptional activator protein known as SBF/Staf/ZNF143. This protein binds to SPH sites within promoters of many genes that produce small stable RNAs (e.g., snRNAs and others) PLUS probably over 2000 promoters of genes that produce mRNAs. Two separate activation domains in this protein direct its action at small RNA vs. mRNA gene promoters. We are using zebrafish as a vertebrate model organism to study the roles of SBF/Staf during development. In vivo studies are coupled with biochemical and molecular biology methods to decipher the mechanisms by which this protein stimulates transcription of various types of genes.",Associate Professor,Biochemistry and Biophysics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n638b96b2
Adam,Case,Associate Professor,"Redox signaling is vital for proper immune system function, yet this area of research is understudied. My graduate career focused on the role of mitochondrial superoxide in T-lymphocyte development. I transitioned this expertise into my postdoctoral training where I examined the role of redox signaling in T-lymphocytes during the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease. As an independent investigator, I have extended this work to identify the contribution of the immune system and redox signaling to different pathological states of psychological trauma and stress. With this, I am investigating the redox, metabolic, and epigenetic mechanisms that may affect immune cell function and potentiate psychological trauma-mediated inflammatory diseases.",Associate Professor||Associate Professor,Medical Physiology||Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n63d8248e
Leng,Han,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Translational Medical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n6745aa55
Shaunna,Clark,Associate Professor,"Dr. Clark's research seeks to understand how biological and environmental factors shape substance use and addiction. Specifically, the lab focuses on the role of genetics and epigenetics in the etiology of substance use and addiction and identifying (epi)genetic biomarkers. This line of research will eventually lead to the improvement of diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of substance addiction and its related health effects. We approach these research questions using a translational framework that incorporates both human and animal studies, big data, and advanced statistical modeling techniques.",Associate Professor,Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n69871e1f
Jun,Wang,Associate Professor,"Our research focuses on identifying the neurobiological basis of neuropsychiatric disorders, such as drug alcohol use disorders. We investigate the cellular and circuit alterations that occur in areas of the brain in response to excessive, pathological alcohol consumption. We are particularly interested in changes that occur in specific populations of neurons and in specific afferent projections to these neurons. We are also interested in contributions of these changes to excessive, pathological alcohol consumption. The result of the research will guide future efforts toward the development of more effective therapeutics for alcohol use disorders.",Associate Professor,School of Medicine,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n6b43e031
Heath,Blackmon,Associate Professor,,Assistant Professor||Associate Professor,Biology||Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n6e56235d
Ya,Wang,Associate Professor,"Dr. Wang's research interests focus on the dynamic features and practical applications associated with intelligent systems and multifunctional structures. The unique properties she seeks to obtain apply to applications such as sensing, energy harvesting, robotics, dynamics, control, and biomedical devices. The overall goal of her research is to be vibrant and adaptable to high-impact innovations in the areas of mechanical engineering, materials science, electrical engineering, and biomedical engineering.",Associate Professor,Mechanical Engineering,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n6ec795d9
Junjie,Zhang,Associate Professor,"The living cell contains a collection of molecular machines to grow and function. These machines include the ribosomes, the chaperons, the proteasomes and other enzymes. Malfunction of these machines, if occurred in human, are related to many diseases. Understanding their three-dimensional (3D) structures is essential to understand how these machines work in the cell and eventually to treat those related diseases.
Here we use an experimental technique called cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) to image these cellular machines in their native environment at liquid nitrogen temperatures. We then use image processing and graphics techniques to visualize their 3D structures, answering the questions such as how they assemble and how they interact with each other.
In addition, we develop computational modeling tools to interpret and animate these obtained 3D structures to further describe their movements and dynamics.",Associate Professor,Biochemistry and Biophysics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n701e163f
Feng,Zhao,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Biomedical Engineering,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n769ab87a
Xu,Peng,Associate Professor,"Our long-term goal is to explore and define novel genetic mechanisms that are involved in cardiovascular disease which can ultimately translate into potential strategies for its treatment. To achieve this goal, we will use a comprehensive approach including mouse genetics and molecular and cellular biology methods to explore the mechanisms involved in the regulation of cardiovascular development and disease.",Associate Professor,Medical Physiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n78b50f7c
Michael,Moreno,Director of Innovation for Engineering Medicine,"Dr. Moreno is the J. Mike Walker '66 Faculty Fellow in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, and serves as Director of Innovation for Engineering Medicine (EnMed). In addition, he has joint appointments in the Departments of Biomedical Engineering, Small Animal Clinical Sciences, Health and Kinesiology, and Medical Education at Texas A&M University. Dr. Moreno has over 20 years of experience developing enabling technologies in the fields of experimental biomechanics and medical research across multiple scales including cell, tissue, organ, and whole-body systems. His work has culminated in the development of therapeutic medical technologies and testing systems for medical technologies, including implantable medical devices and tissue engineered regenerative therapies. He currently holds 8 patents and an active provisional patent related to COVID technologies. He is director of the Biomechanical Environments Laboratory, which operates in accordance with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Quality System Regulation (QSR). He has designed custom mechanical testing systems and protocols for FDA Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) preclinical mechanical testing and animal safety studies. In addition, Dr. Moreno is a co-founder of Biomechanics Innovation Group (BIG) LLC and has worked previously as a consultant in developing experimental flow and mechanical testing systems and protocols for several major medical device companies (e.g. Boston Scientific, Medtronic, Cordis, Flowmedica, etc.). Dr. Moreno was the recipient of the 2016 Dean of Engineering Excellence Award and 2016 TEES Young Faculty Fellow Award. He was a 2012 recipient of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers Skalak Award for best paper. He is a recipient of the Student Led Award for Teaching Excellence (SLATE Award) and the Senator Phil Gramm Award for Excellence in Scholarly Research and Teaching. He has developed and taught courses in Medical Device Design, Bio-Inspired Engineering Design, Biofluid Mechanics, Biosolid Mechanics, Orthopedic Biomechanics, Motion Biomechanics, and Comparative Biomechanics. As a key curriculum developer for the new Engineering Medicine (EnMed) Program, he developed the Introduction to Engineering Innovation in Medicine, Innovation Immersion Experiences, and the Innovation in Clerkships courses. As Director of the Engineering World Health Summer Institute in Rwanda, an immersive service-learning study abroad program, he teaches Healthcare Technology in the Developing World. He is an active member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and currently serves as Chair of the Design, Dynamics, and Rehabilitation Committee. He is also a member of the Biomedical Engineering Society and the European Society of Biomechanics. Dr. Moreno is co-author of 40 peer-reviewed journal publications and 7 book chapters. He has received funding from the National Institutes of Health, National Science Foundation, Department of Defense, and Industry sponsors.",Associate Professor,Mechanical Engineering,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n7b729e4b
Ursula,Winzer-Serhan,Associate Professor,"I am interested in studying how gene environmental interactions shape the brain during development. In particular, I am interested in how early life exposure to psychoactive drugs, like nicotine and alcohol, permanently shape the brain which could result in long-term cognitive impairments, anxiety, and anti-social behavior. My lab is currently focused on the effects of nicotine. Nicotine interacts with nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR) which are ligand-gated, pentameric cation channels.",Associate Professor,Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n7c166c20
Yanan,Tian,Associate Professor,Transcriptional control of the Ah receptor-regulated gene expression. Interaction between the Ah receptor and NF-kB signal transduction pathways. lncRNAs and their role in regulation of gene expression,Associate Professor,Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n7f54d80b
Michelle,Hook,Associate Professor,The primary focus of my current research is examining the effects of morphine on recovery of function after spinal cord injury. This research includes examination of the potential for addiction after SCI as well as the behavioral and molecular changes associated with administration of morphine in a rodent model of spinal cord injury.,Associate Professor,Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n86d28e76
Jay,Groppe,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Biomedical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n93572b3e
Andreea,Trache,Associate Professor,"The research in my laboratory focuses on the study of cellular responses to mechano-chemical stresses from a biophysical perspective. Biophysics research represents an applied field of science at the interface of physics, biology, engineering, and medicine. Our lab uses live vascular cells as a model system because endothelial and smooth muscle cells reside 'in vivo' in a mechanically active environment that is continuously changing. Using real-time imaging of live cells is the only way to directly monitor cellular responses to mechano-chemical stimulation. Moreover, single-cell imaging experiments allow discrete measurements of transient microscopic events that may be masked by a macroscopic average behavior, and will aid in understanding such behavior.",Associate Professor,Medical Physiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n955af1bf
Shenyuan,Zhang,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Medical Physiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n95b01f7e
Kristen,Maitland,Associate Professor,"The focus of Dr. Maitland's research is on the development of light-based technologies for applications in medicine and biology. Technologies include novel light sources, optical fiber based imaging systems, handheld microscopes, multiscale optical microscopes, volumetric imaging systems, portable spectrometers, and point-of-care devices.",Director||Associate Professor,Biomedical Engineering||Microscopy and Imaging Center,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n96bdddbb
Wonmuk,Hwang,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Biomedical Engineering,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n96f41d07
Fei,Liu,Associate Professor,"Our laboratory conducts research in:
1. The characterization and application of standardized mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from iPS cells and their extracellular vesicles (EVs). Current application focuses on treating diseases caused by over-activation of immune system, such as Sjogren's syndrome, an autoimmune disease causing dry eyes and dry mouth, and cytokine storm caused by infections.
2. Roles of tissue-resident macrophages in the development, homeostasis, and regeneration of salivary glands damaged by radiation therapy for cancer.",Associate Professor,Cell Biology and Genetics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n9732f08e
Susan,Payne,Associate Professor,"Molecular aspects of viral replication, pathogenesis, and evolution. The major focus of the laboratory is the retrovirus, equine infectious anemia virus. EIAV studies include evolution of virulence during rapid virus passage, modification of cell signaling pathways mediated by viral glycoproteins, effects of proinflammatory cytokines on virus replication and disease, and detailed mapping of EIAV virulence determinants. We also study the recently discovered avian bornavirus, etiological agent of proventricular dilatation disease of parrots, in conjunction with colleagues from the Schubot center.",Associate Professor,Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n97844057
Shay,Bracha,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Small Animal Clinical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n991c18c0
Daniel,Alge,Associate Professor,"My research is in biomaterials, with an emphasis on biocompatibility and applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.",Faculty Affiliate||Associate Professor,Biomedical Engineering||Institute for Engineering Education and Innovation,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n99feb009
Alan,Dabney,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Statistics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n9b774f13
Hung-Jen,Wu,Associate Professor,"Dr. Wu uses nanostructured materials and analytical tools to develop diagnostic techniques for medical applications. His laboratory recently focuses on understanding the influences of multivalency and cell membrane environment on pathogen-host cell recognition. The applications of his techniques include, infectious diseases screening, exploring cell membrane function, and targeted drug delivery.",Associate Professor,Chemical Engineering,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n9cbcca3e
Xiaohua,Liu,Professor,"As a bioengineer, I have a broad background in biomedical science and engineering, with specific training and expertise in novel biomaterials design/fabrication, controlled protein release, and the use of stem cells for bone, dental and other tissues repair and regeneration. Some of the our current research projects include:
1. Development of novel biomimetic materials/scaffolds for dental and craniofacial tissue regeneration.
2. Development of controlled drug/growth factor delivery system
3. Development of bio-inspired platform to explore cell-material interactions in three-dimension (3D).",Associate Professor||Professor,School of Dentistry||Biomedical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n9cd6704b
Ke,Zhang,Associate Professor,"Dr. Zhang's long-term goal is to decode genetic events and molecular interactions of biological processes, and rigorously represent the complex molecular behaviors with mathematical models. We use advanced high-throughput technology and robust stochastic models to obtain the systematic picture of a biological process. Multiple types of omics data, such as microarray, RNA-seq, ChIP-seq, lipidomics and proteomics are collected through innovative study designs in animals and humans, and are modeled for integrative analysis. Using embryonic mouse as a model system, one of our current focuses is to untangle the spatial and dynamic gene-gene interaction networks during heart development, and illustrate how environmental factors introduce adverse molecular changes and morphological defects. We are also investigating the transgenerational epigenetic variations carried from overweight mother to the offspring, and how the change of lifestyles would prevent childhood obesity.",Associate Professor||Associate Professor,Institute of Biosciences and Technology||Nutrition,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n9d8b0bca
Roland,Kaunas,Associate Professor,"Dr. Roland Kaunas' laboratory focuses on the engineering of micro-tissues containing mesenchymal stem cells as vehicles for regenerating musculoskeletal tissues and as cell-based models for studying bone tumor biology. This work employs sophisticated microfluidic platforms, custom bioreactors, and novel scaffolding strategies involving composites of natural and synthetic polymers.
Kaunas' group also studies how mechanical stresses and strains, such as tensile stretch and fluid shear stress, regulate cell function in vascular tissues including arteries, capillaries and lymphatics. This work involves integration of experiments and theory to elucidate the roles of intracellular contractility, applied forces and scaffold material properties on cell architecture and transduction of mechanical stimuli into intracellular signals leading to changes in cell behavior.",Associate Professor,Biomedical Engineering,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n9eb05d66
Mendell,Rimer,Associate Professor,"Research in our lab centers on the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the formation, maintenance and pathology of synapses, the connections between nerve cells and their targets. Because of its simplicity and experimental accessibility we have used the vertebrate neuromuscular junction (NMJ) as our model system. The NMJ is the synapse between a motor neuron and a skeletal muscle fiber. We address these problems using state-of-the-art mouse molecular genetic techniques in combination with standard molecular, cellular, and immunological approaches.",Associate Professor,Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/na1f9d3fe
Julian,Hurdle,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Institute of Biosciences and Technology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/na747fce2
Penny,Riggs,"Associate Professor, Animal Science",,Adjunct Associate Professor||Associate Professor,Veterinary Integrative Biosciences||Animal Science,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nab0c8ffe
Lan,Zhou,Associate Professor,"My research focuses on statistical methodology and application in bioinformatics, nutrition, biostatistics and epidemiology, and functional/longitudinal data analysis.",Associate Professor,Statistics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nae08b001
Giri,Athrey,Associate Professor,"The main focus of our lab is to address fundamental questions relevant to the genomic and functional basis of complex phenotypes. Research projects in our lab utilize field and experimental studies coupled with genomic and computational tools relevant to livestock improvement, vector-borne diseases, and the microbiome. The broader implications of our research include generating knowledge and innovative tools for improving animal, human, and environmental health.",Associate Department Head||Graduate Faculty||Associate Professor,Poultry Science||Poultry Science||Entomology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/naf83e19d
Gregg,Wells,Associate Professor,"The general theme of the research in my laboratory is the role of protein structure in disease, particularly in neurological disease. One area of study is the structure and function of the superfamily of neurotransmitter-gated ion channels that includes nicotinic acetylcholine, serotonin 5HT3, glycine, and GABAA receptors. Members of this superfamily are involved in drug addiction and alcoholism, neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer disease and Parkinson disease, genetic forms of epilepsy, and neuropsychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and depression. We are developing new approaches to elucidating the molecular structures of these ion channels from animals and bacteria. Cyclic nucleotide gated channels (CNGCs) are a second area of study. We are interpreting their electrophysiological properties in terms of structure and thermodynamics. Hearing is a third area of study. We are using computational models of calcium and potassium ion channels and mechanotransduction to explain electrophysiological function of cochlear hair cells. Fourth, analysis of genomes and tissue-specific transcriptomes of electrogenic animals (e.g., electric fish) is expected reveal new aspects of lifecycles of ion channels. Explaining neurological diseases in terms of protein structure is a theme linking our neuroscience research with neuropathology, my medical specialty.",Associate Professor,Cell Biology and Genetics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nb25f91ff
Xiaofang,Wang,Associate Professor,"My research interests are focused on the signaling regulation of bone and tooth development. Currently, my lab is focused on two kinases on the secretory pathway that are critical for bone and tooth development, Fam20B and Fam20C. I am also interested in mapping the pathogenic genes for bone and tooth diseases in mutant mice/humans. We characterize the gene function using multidisciplinary methods, including genetically engineered animal models, tissue/organ culture/transplantation, Single Cell RNA-Seq, ISH, IHC, and proteomic approaches.
Key words: bone, cartilage, tooth, dentin, enamel, chondrocytes, transgenic, genetics, signaling, FAM20C, FAM20B, kinase, mineralization, FGF23",Associate Professor,Biomedical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nb47c8381
Praveen,Rajendran,Associate Professor,"My research focuses on the discovery and development of novel therapies for colorectal cancer interception and investigating epigenetic pathways implicated in the early stages of the disease. As PI or co-Investigator on several NIH-funded grants, I laid the groundwork in identifying novel epigenetic mechanisms of dietary compounds that affect Wnt/?-catenin and DNA repair.
I also have extensive Pharma R&D expertise in developing novel anticancer drugs through close collaboration with R&D teams. As the Director of Antibody and Biopharmaceuticals Core (ABC), I support and advance the development of monoclonal antibodies.",Associate Professor,Institute of Biosciences and Technology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nb75f2815
Lin,Zhu,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Irma Lerma Rangel School of Pharmacy,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nb936a5d7
Raquel,Sitcheran,Associate Professor,"The goal of our research is to understand the molecular mechanisms that control NF-kappaB regulatory networks in the central nervous system (CNS). NF-kappaB is a ubiquitously expressed, evolutionarily conserved transcription factor that responds to a variety of signals and regulates fundamental processes, including cell growth and proliferation, inflammation, invasion and angiogenesis. Indeed, aberrant NF-kappaB activity or expression is associated with many cancers, as it can promote tumorigenesis, tumor progression and resistance to therapy. Our focus is on glioblastoma, a common and highly lethal CNS tumor that is very resistant to current treatment strategies.",Associate Professor,The Texas A&M University System,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nb97a02a1
Sai,Koka,Associate Professor,"My research is focused on the studying the cellular and molecular mechanisms regulating the development of cardiometabolic disorders and identifying novel pharmacologic strategies to combat cardiovascular cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, endothelial and vascular dysfunction in diabetic, obese and aging patients. Currently we are exploring the role of gut microbe-derived metabolites in endothelial and vascular cell signaling.",Associate Professor,Pharmaceutical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nbdc012b7
Carl,Tong,Associate Professor,"Cardiovascular disease remains as the number one cause of mortality. About 50% of heart failure patients will perish in five years. At age 40, lifetime risk of developing heart failure is one in five. Diastolic dysfunction heart failure prevalence has increased to 50% of all heart failure. In this context, My research is dedicated to elucidating underlying mechanisms and translating discoveries to new treatments.",Associate Professor,Medical Physiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nbf050ef5
Dai,Lu,Associate Professor,"The Lu laboratory is a medicinal chemistry laboratory working in the interface of organic chemistry and pharmaceutical sciences. The lab is engaged in the discovery of potential therapeutics for the treatment of cancer, neurodegenerative diseases and various disorders associated with the endocannabinoid system such as pain, drug-addiction and obesity. The current research projects in the Lu lab include the synthesis of water-soluble analogs of natural products such as taxanes and cannabinoids; the synthesis of various pharmacologically important cannabinoid ligands including agonists, inverse agonists, and allosteric modulators; the synthesis of novel protein kinase inhibitors to regulate the Abelson kinases (ABLs) and cyclin dependent kinases (CDKs). The Lu lab is also interested in the preparation and fabrication of multi-drug-loaded nanoparticles to tackle the deadly pancreatic cancer. These research projects have been funded by National Institute of Health and the State of Texas. Dr. Lu's contributions in medicinal chemistry include the discovery of the first type of intrinsically fluorescent ligands for the G-protein-coupled receptor CB1 and CB2, the discovery of one of the first two selective agonists for the CB2 cannabinoid receptor, the discovery of water-soluble cannabinoids, the discovery of a novel class of protein kinase inhibitors, and the discovery of a clinical drug candidate Buagafuran.",Associate Professor,Pharmaceutical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nc1a05f94
Peter,Nghiem,Associate Professor,"Molecular, cellular, and phenotypic characterization of the canine models for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (golden retriever muscular dystrophy [GRMD]; german short-haired pointer muscular dystrophy [GSHPMD]; cavalier king charles spaniel muscular dystrophy). Molecular characterization with genome-wide mRNA and microRNA profiling via Affymetrix chip and proteomic profiling with mass spectrometry. Confirmation of molecular targets with qRT-PCR, western blot, immunofluorescence microscopy, etc. Cellular characterization of the canine models utilizing biopsy extracted muscle stem cells (myoblasts), including evaluation of the molecular and phenotypic effects of various treatments. Phenotypic characterization of the canine models using internationally established functional outcome measures developed in the Kornegay laboratory. Current research focus is on preclinical drug trials, including gene therapy (dystrophin gene replacement) via adeno-associated viral vector delivery; utilzing gene editing techniques such as CRISPR/Cas9 and TALENs for treatments of genetic disease; characterization of genetic modifiers via whole-genome next generation sequencing (discovery approach); and evaluation of muscle metabolism in dystrophin deficiency.",Associate Professor,Veterinary Integrative Biosciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nc223f624
Abhishek,Jain,Associate Professor,"The overarching theme of my research is to design patient-specific and digital microengineered models of cardiovascular and hematologic diseases (such as, atherosclerosis) for enabling basic scientific discoveries and the advancement of precision and personalized healthcare.",Associate Professor,Biomedical Engineering,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nc7e6af54
Zhilei,Chen,Associate Professor,"The Chen Medicinal Protein Lab aims to accelerate the discovery, development and clinical translation of protein therapeutics through innovative protein engineering research. We believe that better medicine enables a higher quality of living, and protein engineers are charged to create the better medicine for today and tomorrow. We are particularly interested in the creation and engineering of affordable protein therapeutics to prevent and treat infectious diseases and cancer.",Associate Professor,Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nc9a6c3ae
Yongbo,Lu,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Biomedical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ncce6bd83
Lee,Shapiro,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ncd3ac332
Christopher,Woodman,Associate Professor,My research focuses on the interactive effects of aging and exercise training on skeletal muscle vascular beds.,Associate Professor,Kinesiology and Sport Management,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ncffb2181
Paul,Brandt,Associate Professor,"Understanding how the target cells ""interpret"" hormonal signals is the primary focus of our laboratory.Most of our research centers on regulation of steroid hormone-transduced signals. One area of study is the calcium-dependent regulation of glucocorticoid and androgen receptor-mediated transcription. A second major area of interest concerns glucocorticoid and steroid sex hormone regulation of nitric oxide (NO) production. Other areas of interest in our laboratory are: development of androgen-independence in prostate cancer; stress responses in PMCA1(-) cell lines; and the involvement of NO in dry eye syndrome.",Associate Dean for Academic Technology and Curriculum Innovation||Associate Professor,Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics||School of Medicine,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nd24a6df6
Xingmao,Ma,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Civil Engineering,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nd2874fb7
Sarah,White-Springer,Dr,,Associate Professor||Associate Professor,Kinesiology and Sport Management||Animal Science,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nd387aff4
Yun,Huang,Associate Professor,"Dr. Huang is currently an Assistant Professor at the Center for Epigenetics and Disease Prevention, Institute of Biosciences & Technology, Texas A&M University. Her long-term goal is to elucidate the molecular basis of epigenetic changes in the human genome and to develop novel therapies by targeting aberrant DNA methylation and demethylation associated with human diseases, including cancer, immunoinflammatory and cardiovascular diseases.
Dr. Huang's laboratory is focused on elucidating the physiological and pathophysiological functions of TET2 protein and its 5-methylcytosine oxidation products (5hmC, 5fC and 5caC) in cancer and development (Nature Genet 2014; Trends in Genetics 2014).",Associate Professor,Institute of Biosciences and Technology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nd7ed0926
Dekai,Zhang,Associate Professor,"Our laboratory is studying the molecular mechanisms of innate immune recognition by identification and analysis of receptors involved in innate immune recognition and activated signaling pathways. We are particularly interested in the recently identified family of Toll-like receptors, which play a critical role in the mounting of innate immune responses. We wish to understand the mechanisms by which TLRs recognize different pathogen associate molecular patterns (PAMPs), as well as the regulatory mechanisms of TLR signal pathways that lead to NF- k B activation. We are also interested in studying the important links between chronic infection, inflammation and cancer by utilizing biochemical as well as whole animal approaches.",Associate Professor||Associate Professor,Center for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases||Institute of Biosciences and Technology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ndf8a94d4
Deborah,Siegele,Associate Professor,"Phenotypes are observable characteristics of an organism that result from the expression of a particular genotype in a particular environment. Examples of phenotypic traits in microbes are motility, sporulation, ability to perform anaerobic respiration, and resistance/sensitivity to an antibiotic.
Until recently, phenotypic information has been captured as free text descriptions in research papers. Ambiguities in natural language confound attempts to retrieve information across sources. For example, ""serotype"" and ""serovar"" both refer to the same phenotype, but a simple text-based query with either word alone would miss the other. Or a single term, such as ""sporulation"" is used to refer to multiple, distinct processes in different organisms. Issues such as these hamper the ability to integrate different phenotypic data sets for the same organism or to use phenotypic information in one organism to predict possible phenotypes in another organism. Ideally, phenotype information should be stored in a consistent, computable format for ease of data integration and mining.
Controlled vocabularies are used to provide both consistent terminology and a structured data format for the capture of biological information. Ontologies are controlled vocabularies of defined terms with unique identifiers and precise relationships to each other. There are phenotype ontologies available for many eukaryotic organisms, including fungi. However, when the OMP project was initiated, none of the existing ontologies was appropriate to comprehensively capture phenotypes for Bacteria or Archaea or to enable comparisons across microbial taxa.
The Siegele lab and our collaborators at TAMU and the Univ. of Maryland (IGS) are developing a formal Ontology of Microbial Phenotypes (OMP). Our lab is focused on term development and annotating microbial phenotypes. OMP can be accessed at microbialphenotypes.org. Releases of OMP are available at github.com/microbialphenotypes.",Associate Professor,Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ne333d587
Carl,Gregory,Associate Professor,"Our lab has been examining the biology of MSCs with a view to developing rapid molecular markers and tests for evaluating/purifying maximally efficacious cultures of MSCs. The group also specializes in bone repair by MSCs. Based on detailed characterization of the molecular mechanism of osteoblast differentiation by MSCs, a novel and effective bone regeneration strategy has been developed. Additionally, we are currently examining the effects of various small molecules and immunological strategies for the safe and effective inhibition of Dkk-1 activity in bone tumors.We have recently established methods to model bone-tumor interactions using bioreactors that simulate microgravity.",Associate Professor,Cell Biology and Genetics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ne92fd9fb
Steven,Maxwell,Associate Professor,"My primary interests include Cancer; Oncogenes; Tumor Suppressor; Genes Programmed Cell Death (apoptosis); Chemoresistance, and Angiogenesis. My laboratory studies mechanisms of evolution of chemoresistance in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). One current primary objective is to conduct a Phase I study that (1) confirms RTI-79 safety in platinum-resistant/refractory ovarian cancer patients, and (2) demonstrates signals of efficacy in humans (ex: time-to-disease progression and changes in CA125 biomarker). A second objective is to better define the RTI-79 mechanism of action (MOA) by (1) determining how RTI-79 causes a rapid burst in superoxides, and (2) elucidating the basis of Nrf-2 pathway downregulation.",Associate Professor,Cell Biology and Genetics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/neb5b702f
Jessica,Light,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,"Rangeland, Wildlife and Fisheries Management||Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences",https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nef845312
Jerome,Menet,Associate Professor,"Most organisms from bacteria to humans exhibit 24-hours rhythms in their biochemistry, physiology and behavior. Best exemplified by the sleep/wake cycle, these rhythms are remarkably widespread and include in humans hormonal (e.g., melatonin, insulin, cortisol), metabolic (e.g., glucose, cholesterol), physiological and behavioral oscillations. In fact, most biological functions are rhythmic and are set to perform optimally at the most appropriate time of the day. For example, the human digestion process performs better during the day when we are supposed to eat.
These circadian rhythms are generated by ""molecular clocks"", which consist of a few ""clock genes"" interacting in feedback loops, and which drive the rhythmic expression of a large number of genes, i.e. ~10% of the transcriptome in any tissues. This wide impact of clock genes in regulating gene expression is underscored by the surprisingly large number of pathologies developed by clock-deficient mice. In addition to being arrhythmic, these mice indeed develop pathologies as diverse as mania-like behaviors, learning and memory defects, depression, drug addiction, insomnia, metabolic diseases, arthropathy, hematopoiesis defects and cancers.
Research in our lab aims at characterizing how circadian clocks and clock genes regulate gene expression to provide insights into how and why clock dysfuntion leads to a wide spectra of pathologies. To this end, we are using a wide-range of molecular and biochemical techniques to investigate the circadian clock function at the genome-wide level (e.g., next-generation sequencing). We are currently extending some of our recent results and focus on 1) how clock genes rhythmically regulate chromatin environment and 2) the mechanisms involved in rhythmic post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression.",Associate Professor,Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nf680fb91
Carlos,Bolanos,Associate Professor,"My research interests center on investigating how exposure to psychotropic drugs (e.g. stimulants, antidepressants), and stress (whether physical or emotional), modifies the biochemical integrity of neuronal pathways involved in the regulation of mood and motivated behaviors, and how these pharmacological and/or environmental manipulations early-in-life affect biochemical and behavioral functioning later in adulthood. Understanding the relationship(s) between brain and behavior from a developmental perspective can provide novel insights for the development of therapeutics for stress and drug dependence. As noted by my professional development and publication record below, I have been involved in research questions with high degree of translational relevance.",Associate Professor,,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nf881cd07
Genny,Carrillo,Associate Professor,"My research interests include exposure assessment and health outcomes, asthma in children, pediatric diabetes, children's environmental health, and public health disparities. My research is on the Texas-Mexico border.",Associate Professor,Environmental and Occupational Health,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nfcdce654