First name,Last name,Preferred title,Overview,Position,Department,Individual
James,Samuel,Regents Professor and Head,"Our laboratory works with the obligate intracellular bacterial pathogen, Coxiella burnetii, the etiologic agent of Q fever and a category B biothreat agent. The long-term goal of this research is to understand the molecular pathogenic mechanisms involved in the host-pathogen interaction. To accomplish this broad goal, project in the lab are designed to test the molecular mechanisms employed by both the host and pathogen. Current pathogen studies include 1) broad survey of proteins secreted via a type 4 secretion system (T4SS) followed by determination of essentiality of each substrate for virulence and detailed analysis of mechanism of host modulation 2) survey of essential virulence loci identified by specific mutant screens, and 3) definition of the relative virulence of phylogenetically distinct isolate groups.",Regents Professor and Head,Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n01c3216f
Yuxiang,Sun,Professor,"Dr. Sun is an expert on ""hunger hormone"" ghrelin. She generated the first set of ghrelin and ghrelin receptor knockout mice, and discovered novel roles of ghrelin signaling in diabetes, thermogenesis, and inflammation. Her laboratory uses state-of-the-art tools to study ghrelin system in energy sensing, metabolism and immunity, and aging. Her work suggests that ghrelin signal might be a promising drug target for obesity, diabetes, inflammation, and Alzheimer's disease.",Professor,Nutrition,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n0228c22e
Sing-Hoi,Sze,Associate Professor - Term Appoint,"Our work focuses on the application of computational techniques to solve problems in biology. Current research projects cover diverse areas in computational biology, including multiple sequence alignment, motif finding with applications to predicting transcription factor binding sites, biological network analysis, and identification of gene clusters within genomes.",Associate Professor - Term Appoint,Computer Science and Engineering,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n0248d9df
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
Anja,Schulze,Professor,"My research on marine invertebrates spans evolution, ecology, development and physiology. My lab is interested in how invertebrate animals have diversified over time and space. Which morphological and physiological characteristics have led to the evolutionary success of a species? Which environmental factors drive its geographic distribution? To address these questions, we focus on marine annelids, a ubiquitous and diverse taxon with at least 15,000 described species and a wide range of habitats and lifestyles.",Professor,Texas A&M University at Galveston,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n042bccf8
J.,Heatley,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Small Animal Clinical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n0473e208
Patricia,Pietrantonio,Professor and Texas AgriLife Research Fellow,"We work with important pests that are critical to Texas and the world focusing on public and animal health and on pests of cotton. We are interested in elucidating the functions of arthropod neuropeptides that signal through G protein-coupled receptors. Many of these neuropeptides are pleiotropic and many of their multiple functions are still unknown. We utilize loss-of-function experiments through RNAi, peptidomimetics, the discovery of antagonists through target-based high-throughput screening of small molecules on recombinant receptors expressed in mammalian cells, immunohistochemistry, and develop physiological in vitro and in vivo assays towards advancing arthropod endocrinology. The laboratory has pioneered the discovery of the first neuropeptide receptor in the Acari and the first insect prostaglandin receptor. The molecular and cell culture laboratories are BL2 and the Insect toxicology laboratory is BL1. We use state-of-the-art technologies and the lab is well equipped to do almost everything in-house.",Professor,Entomology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n0555af9d
Seth,Murray,Professor,"Dr. Murray's research interests focus on improving the productivity, sustainability (economic and environmental) and quality of agricultural production through scientific research and development; mostly in maize (corn). The approaches used to conduct this research include 1) high-throughput field phenotyping (UAVs/drones, ground vehicles, NIRS), 2) molecular quantitative genetic discovery (including QTL mapping, GWAS), 3) statistical modeling and novel analysis methods (including big data and metanalysis), 4) development of new breeding and genetics approaches (including use of computer simulations), and ultimately 5) applied maize (corn) field breeding (classical and molecular). Primary traits of interest for discovering genetic variation and improving in maize for are yield, southern adaptation, stress (aflatoxin resistance, drought tolerance), plant height, composition (colored grain, high grain antioxidants, low phosphorus), and perennialism. Graduate student training is deeply embedded in all of my research.",Eugene Butler Endowed Chair||Professor,College of Agriculture and Life Sciences||Soil and Crop Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n06b68456
Dorothy,Shippen,Professor,"We are taking biochemical, molecular genetic and cytological approaches to study the structure, function and maintenance of telomeres. Telomeres are higher order nucleoprotein complexes that cap the ends of eukaryotic chromosomes and play essential roles in conferring genome stability and cell proliferation capacity. The protective cap of the telomere is comprised of specific telomere binding proteins that regulate the length of telomeric DNA tract and allow the cell distinguish the chromosome terminus from a double-strand break. Telomeric DNA is synthesized by the action of telomerase, an unusual reverse transcriptase that replenishes telomeric DNA lost as a consequence of replication by conventional DNA polymerases. We have developed the genetically tractable flowering plant Arabidopsis thaliana as a model system for studying telomeres in higher eukaryotes. With its sequenced genome, abundant genetic and transgenic tools, and extraordinarily high tolerance to genome instability, Arabidopsis has proven to be an excellent model for investigating fundamental processes in telomere biology. Current studies focus on defining the function and molecular evolution of telomere capping proteins and components of the telomerase ribonucleoprotein complex.",Professor,Biochemistry and Biophysics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n07e86cac
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
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
Hubert,Amrein,Professor,"My broad research interests are concerned with the sensory perception of the external chemical world. The central questions investigated in our laboratory are concerned with how animals detect and discriminate among the thousands of different chemical signals that ""flood"" the olfactory and taste organs. Our laboratory uses Drosophila as a model to study these problems because the Drosophilachemosensory systems are structurally and functionally very similar to those of mammals, yet they are smaller and somewhat less complex, which makes them excellent models to investigate the molecular and neural basis of olfaction and taste.",Senior Associate Dean of Research||Professor||Professor,Cell Biology and Genetics||School of Medicine||Nutrition,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n0839ec95
Byung-Jun,Yoon,Professor,"Dr. Yoon's main theoretical interests include objective-based uncertainty quantification, optimal experimental design (OED), machine learning, and signal processing. Application areas of interest include bioinformatics, computational network biology, and AI-driven drug/materials discovery.",Professor,Electrical and Computer Engineering,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n08866781
Rajesh,Miranda,Professor,"My research is focused on fetal brain development, stem cells, microRNAs, and teratology. Our laboratory is interested in understanding the biological steps that transform uncommitted stem cells into neurons or a glial cells, and identifying key microRNAs that control the transformation of stem cells into neurons. We are also currently investigating what role teratogen-sensitive microRNAs play in fetal brain growth, and the spatial patterning of the emerging forebrain.",Professor,Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n0b271ea8
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
Lawrence,Wolinsky,Dean,,Dean||Professor||Faculty Fellow,Periodontics||School of Dentistry||Center for Health Systems and Design,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n0d0247f9
Bruce,Riley,Professor,"My lab studies inner ear development in zebrafish. A prominent feature of our research is to investigate how cell-cell signaling and downstream gene-interactions control development. One project in the lab focuses on how cell signaling regulates ectodermal patterning during gastrulation to establish the otic placode, the precursor of the inner ear. Our recent work shows that localized Fgf signaling is especially critical for inducing formation of the otic placode, and members of the Pax2/5/8 family of transcription factors are important mediators of Fgf signaling. During later stages of inner ear development, we are exploring how sensory hair cells and neurons are regulated. Our studies address how these cells initially form, how they are genetically maintained, and how they become specialized for hearing vs. balance. We are also investigating how zebrafish can replace dead and damaged hair cells, an ability that mammals have lost. The inability to regenerate hair cells explains why humans show progressive irreversible hearing loss as we age. It is hoped that activating or augmenting human homologs of genes shown to operate in zebrafish might help restore hearing and balance in humans.",Professor,Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n0dbb8253
James,Womack,Distinguished Professor,"Comparative mammalian genomics with emphasis on bovids and laboratory animals. Study of evolution of gene families and genomic variation underlying disease resistance. Investigation of genetic mechanisms in innate immunity with focus on livestock, select agents, and agricultural biosecurity.",Distinguished Professor,Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n0e1a49e2
Erin,Van Schaik,Research Assistant Professor,,Research Assistant Professor,Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n0f17ac3a
Timothy,Devarenne,Associate Professor,"We study the biochemical and molecular mechanisms underlying the control of programmed cell death (PCD) in plants and how PCD is manipulated during plant-pathogen interactions. Specifically we study the interaction between tomato and Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato (Pst) the causative agent of bacterial spot disease. Resistance to this disease is conferred by the host Pto serine/threonine protein kinase which recognizes Pst strains expressing the type III effector protein AvrPto.
PCD is induced during both resistant and susceptible plant-pathogen interactions. In the case of a resistant interaction, PCD induced by the plant, known as the hypersensitive response (HR), and acts to limit the spread of the pathogen. In susceptible plant-pathogen interactions plant PCD is induced by the pathogen after infection leading to death of the host. Studies have indicated that the genes controlling host PCD during the HR are the same genes that are manipulated by the pathogen during susceptible interactions. The difference lies in the timing of controlling the activity of these genes; HR PCD occurs within 12 hours of pathogen recognition while pathogen-induced PCD occurs several days after infection.
Many of these genes that control plant PCD are serine/threonine (S/T) protein kinase. We are interested in studying a specific class of S/T protein kinases that control PCD in plants called AGC kinases and how they are regulated in both resistant and susceptible plant-pathogen interactions. Additionally, when plants are not attacked by pathogens, PCD is a process that requires constant control so that cell death does not occur. We are looking at the signaling mechanisms and pathways employed to keep PCD under check in non-pathogen challenged plants.",Faculty Affiliate||Associate Professor,Energy Institute||Biochemistry and Biophysics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n11411275
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
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
Mary,Bryk,"Associate Professor and Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences",,Associate Professor and Associate Dean for Academic Affairs,College of Agriculture and Life Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n145a2ab4
Jorge,Cruz-Reyes,Professor,"We combine approaches in molecular genetics, structural biology, biochemistry, proteomics, and bioinformatics to study the amazing RNA biology of trypanosome parasites. One research line is on an RNA editing process by uridine insertion and deletion that creates amino acid coding triplets in most mRNAs. Yet a single error in the U-changes yields a frame-shift. Trypanosomes split from other eukaryotic lineages over a hundred million years ago, yet this editing has analogies with RNAi, CRISPR/Cas9, mRNA splicing and other systems directed by small non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs).",Professor||Professor,Texas A&M AgriLife Research||Biochemistry and Biophysics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n147e77ee
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
Anthony,Knap,Professor and Director,"Dr. Knap's primary research focuses include oceanography, organic geochemistry, environmental science, atmosphere/ocean interactions, oil pollution and dispersant use, and effects of contaminants on the marine environment. Global climate change is another area of interest, particularly climate instability, business/science interactions, renewable energy, marine derived bio-fuels, ocean genomics, ocean acidification. He was Founder and Principal Investigator of the NSF-funded Bermuda Atlantic Time-series Study (BATS) off Bermuda. He was also the Principal Investigator for 30 years of Hydrostation S, founded in 1954 and the longest continuous time-series in the Ocean, also funded by NSF. He most recently was appointed to the Gulf Research Board of the US National Academy of Sciences.","Professor||Faculty Affiliate||Director, Geochemical and Environmental Research Group||Faculty Fellow",Center for Health Systems and Design||Oceanography||Energy Institute||College of Geosciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n15ee86bc
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
Sarah,Bondos,Associate Professor,"My laboratory works in two research areas. First, we are combining biophysical and genetic approaches to understand how proteins use unstructured regions to sense cellular information and respond by adjusting their function. We developed methods to purify Ultrabithorax, a full-length, active Hox transcription factor, and have used this unique opportunity to investigate the role of intramolecular regulatory interactions in tissue-specific protein regulation. Second, we discovered methods to self-assemble Ultrabithorax into robust, extensible materials that are biocompatible and provide unique opportunities for functionalization. These materials are being developed for use as biosensors and to pattern and instruct vascularization in tissue engineering scaffolds.",,,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n18de9127
Benjamin,Neuman,Professor,,Professor,Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n193ea580
Donald,Brightsmith,Associate Professor,"My research focuses on the conservation, ecology, health, and welfare of parrots and their relatives in both the wild and captivity.",Professor||Associate Professor,Veterinary Pathobiology||Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n19a331cf
Michael,Golding,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n19ac3c74
Andrei,Golovko,Manager,,Production Manager,Institute for Genomic Medicine,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n1aca08e4
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
Charles,Long,Professor,"My laboratory is currently working on a number of projects involving genetic engineering in cattle, goats, sheep and horses. We use CRISPR/Cas gene editing to specifically alter the coding sequence of genes in sheep to produced biomedical models of human disease, specifically hypophosphatasia. My lab is actively working on projects to produce gene edited cattle that are resistant to respiratory disease. We have also successfully used gene editing to correct the glycogen branching enzyme deficiency mutation in horses. We are also interested in altering the carcass characteristics of beef cattle by genetic engineering genes specifically related to meat tenderness in Bos indicus cattle. Other projects in the lab involve the use of mesenchymal stem cell-based therapies for treatment of equine disease and in particular methods for using these cells to over express proteins that can modulate the inflammatory response. We also have interest in using livestock as bioreactors to produce biotherapeutics and vaccine antigens in their milk. I have extensive experience in using genetic engineering in combination with assisted reproductive technologies (including somatic cell nuclear transfer) to produce live animals.",Professor,Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n1dc326d5
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
Tracy,Clement,Assistant Professor,"My laboratory uses an integrative approach to elucidate the molecular basis of cyto/nucleo morphogenesis in the spermatid, called spermiogenesis. This is among the most drastic cellular reorganizations and is critical for both male fertility and high fidelity transmission of genetic and epigenetic information to the next generation for healthy offspring. We seek to elucidate structural and regulatory processes involved in this transformation to understand the molecular underpinnings of cytoskeletal and chromatin remodeling in normal and disrupted spermiogenesis. The laboratory takes advantage of molecular and genetic tools in mouse models including transgenesis, gene knock out studies, and genomic and proteomic expression analyses, advanced imaging technologies for morphological and live tissue imaging, and protein expression and in vitro molecular biochemical approaches such as actin dynamics assays.",Assistant Professor,Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n1ee4ad1b
Gregory,Johnson,Professor,,Professor,Veterinary Integrative Biosciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n22b3a445
Umesh,Bageshwar,Research Assistant Professor,Our current work focuses on identifying the interaction site(s) between the Tat precursor pre-SufI and the TatBC receptor complex based on chemical crosslinking and the complementation of the Escherichia coli Tat pathway by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis Tat pathway.,Research Assistant Professor,Cell Biology and Genetics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n23071727
Mollie,Reynolds,Senior Lecturer,,Senior Lecturer||Lecturer,Biochemistry and Biophysics||Biochemistry and Biophysics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n23886382
Jennifer,Gillett-Kaufman,Instructional Associate Professor,I conduct applied research related to olive pest identification and management. My students work to develop research based answers that meet the needs of Texas citizens. Student research projects are driven by their interests and include (but are not limited to):
o olive pest management
o native pollinator abundance
o orchid pollination,Instructional Associate Professor,Entomology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n23de7371
Lisa,Even,Manager Laboratory,,Manager Laboratory,Small Animal Clinical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n24b36cbf
David,Russell,Professor,"My research focuses on proteomics, lipidomics, biophysical chemistry and application and development of mass spectrometry, such as ""label-free"" nano-particle based biosensors and novel peptide/protein isolation and purification strategies. We are also investigating the structure(s) of model peptides in an effort to better describe folding/unfolding and structure of membrane and intrinsically disordered (IDP) proteins. Peptides take on very different 2?, 3? and 4? structure, which determine or influence bio-activity. In the presence of lipid vesicles peptides can exist as solution-phase species, ""absorbed"" on lipid bilayers or ""inserted"" (as a monomer or multimer) in lipid bilayers. By what mechanism do peptides interact with lipid membranes to affect these structural changes, how do peptide-lipid interactions promote self-assembly to form intermediates that eventually yield aggregates, i.e., amyloid fibrils, or how does metal ion coordination affect the structure of metalloproteins? Mass spectrometry-based experiments, hydrogen/deuterium (H/D) exchange, chemical 'foot-printing' and gas-phase (ion-molecule and ion-ion reaction chemistry) and solution-phase chemical modifications, have expanded our abilities to address such questions, and new instrumental approaches, esp. ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) combined with enhanced molecular dynamics simulations (MDS), have become standard tools for structural-mass spectrometry studies. Over the past several years we have either acquired or developed novel, next-generation IM-MS instruments that are redefining cutting-edge structural-mass spectrometry research as well as cutting-edge computational tools essential to carry out these studies. Our new laboratories in the Interdisciplinary Life Sciences Building (ILSB) provides exciting opportunities for collaborative, interdisciplinary research with chemical-biologists, biochemists and other chemists.",Professor,Chemistry,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n280e03e6
Won-Bo,Shim,Professor and Associate Department Head,"Fungal pathogens of cereal crops can cause devastating disruption to the global food supply, and the economic loss due to crop diseases can add up to billions of dollars annually worldwide. The Shim lab at Texas A&M University focused on studying fungal pathogens of field crops, particularly Fusarium species. Notably, hazardous Fusarium mycotoxins pose a significant threat to global food safety and human health. Crop losses as well as the regulatory, testing, and management costs associated with mycotoxins in the US tops $1 billion annually.
The Genus Fusarium has had a great negative impact on agriculture and food safety but also presents a great opportunity for answering many fundamental questions. We are pursuing new discoveries that will ultimately lead to innovative tools for controlling crop diseases and mycotoxin contamination. To broaden the impact, we are actively collaborating with colleagues at Texas A&M as well as other prominent institutions worldwide. We are also very excited about our collaborations with colleagues in Texas A&M Engineering to spearhead multidisciplinary projects that can innovate plant pathology research.",Professor and Associate Department Head,Plant Pathology and Microbiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n28234bb8
Artem,Rogovskyy,Associate Professor,,,,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n285dc10c
Mariappan,Muthuchamy,Professor,"The main goal of our laboratory is to understand the molecular mechanisms of cardiac muscle dynamics in normal and diseased states. Particularly, our interests focus on the relationships between thin filament activation and crossbridge kinetics, and how the mechanotransduction signaling transmits to myofilament activation. We use multiple techniques, molecular, cellular, biochemistry, structural and biophysical, to obtain information on the fundamental regulatory mechanisms of cardiac muscle contraction.
Our lab group is also investigating the role of lymphatics in different tissue beds, including mesentery, skeletal muscle, and brain using various animal models.",Professor,Medical Physiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n2877399b
Deborah,Bell-Pedersen,Professor,"Research in the Bell-Pedersen lab focuses on determining how the circadian clock functions in organisms to regulate daily rhythms in gene expression, behavior, and physiology. The molecular clock in higher eukaryotes involves a master clock in the brain regulating clocks in peripheral tissues, posing significant obstacles for understanding circadian output mechanisms. Thus, a major strength of our work is using a single-celled model eukaryote, Neurospora crassa, to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of rhythmic gene expression and protein synthesis. Clock dysfunction in humans is associated with a wide range of diseases, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, metabolic disorders, mental illness, sleep disorders, and aging. In addition, daily changes in metabolism and cell division rates influence the efficacy and toxicity of many pharmaceuticals, including cancer drugs. Therefore, knowing how clocks work to control rhythmic gene expression, and what they regulate, is critical for the development of therapeutics. Research to understand clock-controlled rhythmic gene expression has focused primarily on transcriptional mechanisms, and little was known about posttranscriptional control. We discovered that the clock regulates highly conserved translation initiation and elongation factors, tRNA synthetase levels, and ribosome heterogeneity. This regulation determines what mRNAs are rhythmically translated and the accuracy of the translation process (translation fidelity). We are capitalizing on these exciting discoveries to determine how the clock regulates translation fidelity. These studies will provide the foundation for understanding the impact of daily rhythms in translation fidelity on protein diversity beyond what is encoded for in the genome.",Professor and Associate Department Head,Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n2a2bfb97
Jian,Feng,Professor and Assistant Dean,,Assistant Dean for Research and Professor,Biomedical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n2b3403fd
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
Delbert,Gatlin,Professor and Associate Department Head,,Professor and Associate Department Head,"Rangeland, Wildlife and Fisheries Management||Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences",https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n2eb4270c
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
Edward,Vargo,Professor,"We use molecular genetic tools, primarily microsatellite markers and mtDNA sequence data, to conduct basic and applied studies of termites and other insect pests of human structures. Our work on termites encompasses the breeding structure of colonies, colony and population genetic structure, invasion biology, foraging areas, colony densities and population dynamics. Research on other structural pests, mainly ants, cockroaches and bedbugs, focuses on population genetic structure, invasion biology, and dispersal.",Professor,Entomology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n3165cf9e
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
Ping,He,Professor,"Our laboratory is interested in elucidating novel plant immune signaling pathways as well as studying the myriad actions of pathogen virulence factors that intercept host immune responses. In order to provide a complete view of host-microbe interactions, we are using cellular, functional genomic, genetic, biochemical and bioinformatic approaches. In addition, plant immunity is inextricably linked with plant development and environmental stresses. We are also interested in understanding the signaling crosstalk that orchestrates plant responses to different extrinsic and intrinsic signals. Ultimately, knowledge gained from studying model plants, such as Arabidopsis, will be applied to improve crop plants for resistance against different biotic and abiotic stresses.",Professor,Biochemistry and Biophysics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n330081c7
Jessica,Galloway-Pena,Assistant Professor,"Dr. Galloway-Pena's studies incorporate the genetic basis of pathogenesis as well as the molecular epidemiology of clinically relevant gram-positive pathogens, focusing on those with multi-drug resistance. She has more recently shifted her focus to microbiome dynamics during cancer treatment and the intense antibiotic therapy seen in the hematological malignancy setting to determine the microbiome's impact on cancer treatment outcomes, toxicities, and colonization/infection by antibiotic resistant organisms. Applications of her research include determining genetic and chemical markers for microbial diversity that can be used in the clinical setting, designing predictive risk models for antibiotic resistant infectious risk during chemotherapy, and promoting antimicrobial stewardship and microbial conscious treatment.",Assistant Professor,Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n339da0fb
Andy,Herring,Professor,"Dr. Herring has teaching and research responsibilities within the department. He teaches undergraduate and graduate level classes in beef cattle production and management (ANSC 406 and 605). His research interests focus on areas to increase production efficiency for cow-calf producers through coordination of breeding systems, environmental resources and marketing strategies. He has researched genetic and environmental influences on milk production in beef cows, breed differences for feedlot and carcass characteristics, and genetic influences on beef cow reproduction and productivity, cattle temperament and immune responses. He also remains active in state and national beef cattle industry groups.",Professor,Animal Science,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n33a6bd5e
Jennifer,Herman,Associate Professor,"The study of how bacteria organize important cellular processes and determining the functional/physiological implications of this organization for the cell is one of the most exciting areas of research in microbiology. In the Herman lab, we utilize the model organism Bacillus subtilis, a bacterium with superb molecular, genetic and cell biological tools, that that can also differentiate into a resting cell type called a spore. Our research goal is to elucidate how bacteria coordinate key biological processes, with their cellular architecture using molecular, biochemical, and cell biological techniques.",Associate Professor||Associate Professor,Texas A&M AgriLife Research||Biochemistry and Biophysics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n359e91fd
Thomas,Ioerger,Professor - Term Appoint,"Dr. Ioerger's research interests are in the areas of Artificial Intelligence, Intelligent Agents, and Machine Learning. His work has covered diverse areas, from spatial reasoning, to simulating team-work, to modeling emotions. Currently, his primary focus is on designing multi-agent system architectures to simulate collaborative behavior and teamwork. He also applies AI and machine learning methods to various problems in the area of Bioinformatics, including the improvement of protein sequence alignments, molecular modeling, and X-ray crystallography. The latter research has lead to the development of an automated software system for protein model-building called TEXTAL, which is currently being used by crystallographers throughout the world.",Professor - Term Appoint,Computer Science and Engineering,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n36a51a43
Gloria,Conover,Instructional Assistant Professor,"Dr. Conover is interested in the cellular processes that govern cytoskeletal crosstalk in myocytes and the subversion of the endocytic pathway during intracellular bacterial infection. She showed that nebulette and nebulin sarcomere proteins functionally integrate desmin intermediate filaments to the actin cytoskeleton. During her PhD studies, using genetics and screen she discovered LidA, a Legionella pneumophila effector exported into macrophages through bacterial Icm/Dot Type IV secretion system. As a research scientist, she lead an interdisciplinary team to develop a live-cell multi day microfluidics platform to study the temporal response to stress of persistent Mycobacteria. Currently, she is interested in the vertical integration of the basic science medical curriculum and interprofessional research practices into medical curriculum to advance the next generation of medical treatments.",Instructional Assistant Professor||Director,Health Science Center||Health Science Center,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n3706f4f0
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
Vijay,Joshi,Assistant Professor,"The Systems Plant Physiology program is developing crops with enhanced nutritional qualities and identifying new methods to improve environmental attributes. This program focuses on plant biology and its integrations with micro and macro environments, utilizing physiological, molecular, or metabolic traits to understand associated biological processes. Our broad goal is developing crop varieties with enhanced crop productivity, nutritional qualities and tolerance to abiotic stresses for greater adaptability. The critical areas of research we focus on are: Nitrogen use efficiency, nitrogen sensing, transport and assimilation, Molecular and genetic aspects of plant metabolism.",Assistant Professor,Uvalde Research and Extension Center,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n375e2b34
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
Bradley,Weeks,Professor Emeritus,"Retired Professor, Veterinary Pathobiology Department. Collaborator as ACVP board-certified anatomic pathologist in research projects that include implanted medical devices inflammatory and neoplastic gastrointestinal diseases, and cardiovascular diseases.",Professor Emeritus,School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n3d42a32c
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
Robert,Chapkin,Distinguished Professor,"Research in the Chapkin lab focuses on dietary/microbial modulators related to the prevention of cancer and chronic inflammatory diseases.
Our central goal is to (1) understand cancer chemoprevention at a fundamental level, and (2) to test pharmaceutical agents in combination with dietary/microbial (countermeasures to the Western diet) to more effectively improve gut health and reduce systemic chronic inflammation. Since diet influences gut microbiota composition and metabolite production, to unravel the interrelationships among gut health and the structure of the gut microbial ecosystem, we are in the process of evaluating (using transgenic mouse, Drosophila models and humans) how the gut microbiome modulates intestinal cells, innate immune cells and tumors. As part of this endeavor, we are modeling at the molecular level the dynamic relationship between diet and gut microbe-derived metabolites which modulate chronic inflammation and the hierarchical cellular organization of the intestine, e.g., stem cell niche.",Distinguished Professor||Professor,Biochemistry and Biophysics||Nutrition,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n3fbb59f8
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
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
Qinglei,Li,Professor,"My long-term research goal is to identify the cellular and molecular basis of pregnancy failure and uterine dysfunction, thereby contributing to a framework for developing novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to improve reproductive potential. To benefit human and animal health, research in my lab focuses on defining the mechanism underlying uterine development and the pathogenesis of gynecologic cancers. My laboratory has created mouse models that harbor genetic modifications of critical transforming growth factor ? (TGF?) signaling components using conditional loss-of-function and gain-of-function approaches in the uterus. These models have yielded new insights into the fundamental roles of TGF? signaling in reproductive tract development and function. We have also developed pre-clinical mouse models for ovarian granulosa cell tumor and endometrial cancer. These disease models may be harnessed to uncover new opportunities for cancer treatment.",Professor||Professor,The Texas A&M University System||Veterinary Integrative Biosciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n408645cd
Leland,Pierson,Professor and Head,,Professor and Head,Plant Pathology and Microbiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n4162e884
Charles,Criscione,Professor,"I examine fundamental ecological and evolutionary questions in parasite systems and consider my research to be at the interface of ecology, evolution, and genetics. Parasitology provides a rich subject area for studies of ecology and evolutionary biology. Numerous topics such as ecosystem dynamics, mating systems, or coevolution can be addressed because parasites are extremely diverse. By diversity, I include not only the myriad of taxa that have independently evolved a parasitic lifestyle, but also the diversity in life cycles, modes of reproduction, host species, and ecosystems utilized by parasites. This diversity also allows for comparative studies to address theories or unifying principles that span ecosystems or taxonomic groups. Furthermore, there are many practical applications such as studying the evolution of drug resistance, or using parasite community structure to assess ""ecosystem health"". My research interests address both basic and applied questions, and span three overlapping subject areas: 1) Evolution: Population Genetics, Mating Systems, and Molecular Epidemiology, 2) Ecology: Biodiversity, Conservation, and Natural History, and 3) Genetics and Ecological Genomics.",Professor,Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n41a8b584
Samikkannu,Thangavel,Associate Professor,"Our lab is predominantly interested in the neuropathogenesis of HIV and drug abuse. We are elucidating the role of HIV and drugs of abuse in energy dysregulation, which ultimately may lead the neurodegeneration. We examine the metabolic signatures through inflammasome profiles, mitochondrial biogenesis, and epigenetics. We use in vitro, ex vivo and a transgenic rat model system in our experiments. Our goal is to develop novel diagnostics tests and treatments for neuroAIDs and neurologic damage related to drugs of abuse.",Associate Professor,Pharmacy Practice,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n42fbd1a8
Dzmitry,Kurouski,Assistant Professor,"My laboratory is broadly interested in elucidation of structural organization of amyloid oligomers using Tip-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (TERS).
The ultimate objective of our studies is to unravel structural elements on surfaces of amyloid oligomers that are responsible for their toxicity and propensity to propagate into amyloid fibrils. These findings will help to guide pharmaceutical drug screening efforts towards finding selective blockaders of amyloid fibrillation at the stage where their aggregates are minimally toxic. Finally, resolving the structure of amyloid oligomers will give an inside how to cure Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases and dementia.",Assistant Professor,Biochemistry and Biophysics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n43453d43
Maria,King,Research Associate Professor,"My interdisciplinary studies focus on the development of the wetted wall cyclone aerosol collector technology to monitor potential health hazards and improve surveillance efforts by collecting aerosols released from agricultural and industrial facilities and modeling particle dispersion. Within a coal mining industry study we aim to determine the influence of particle size distribution, chemical composition and morphology of airborne respirable mine dusts and diesel particulates on lung disease. My projects involve fluid mechanics, computational flow modeling and metagenomics to study biofilms in oil fields and nuclear reactors and mitigate microbial contamination in drilling equipment, hydraulic fracturing water and cooling systems.",Assistant Professor||Faculty Affiliate||Faculty Affiliate,Biological and Agricultural Engineering||Energy Institute||Institute for Engineering Education and Innovation,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n44870816
Phillip,Kaufman,Professor and Department Head,"My research program focuses on the development of new pest management tools for Florida's livestock operators. Beef cattle, dairy cattle and horses are the predominant livestock in Florida and are the focus of this program. Insecticide resistance and control failures are commonplace for many of the fly pests; therefore, innovative systems are needed to assist in their management. However, to successfully manage these pests, studies investigating their biology and ecology are needed.
The role that biological control can play in assisting with pest control is another research avenue. Producer pesticide selection and the resultant impacts on non-target, beneficial arthropods in grazing systems are of particular interest.",Professor and Department Head,Entomology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n44fc312d
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
Jackie,Rudd,Professor,"I am the project leader of the hard winter wheat breeding program for the High Plains and Rolling Plains of Texas. Responsibilities include management of the cultivar development project, graduate student training, and conducting research relevant to wheat genetic improvement. My current research interests are breeding for water use efficiency, introgression of forage and grain yield traits from synthetic hexaploid wheat, high throughput phenotyping for biomass production, marker assisted breeding for biotic and abiotic stress resistance, and enhanced bread-making quality.","Professor||Project Leader, Wheat Breeding Program",Soil and Crop Sciences||Amarillo Research and Extension Center,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n48d095ec
Tadhg,Begley,Distinguished Professor,"The Begley Group is interested in the mechanistic chemistry and enzymology of complex organic transformations, particularly those found on the vitamin biosynthetic pathways. We are currently working on the biosynthesis of thiamin, molybdopterin, pyridoxal phosphate and menaquinone. Our research involves a combination of molecular biology, protein biochemistry, organic synthesis and structural studies and provides a strong training for students interested in understanding the organic chemistry of living systems and in pursuing careers in biotechnology, drug design or academia.
Thiamin pyrophosphate plays a key role in the stabilization of the acyl carbanion synthon in carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism. The biosyntheses of the thiamin pyrimidine and thiazole are complex and are different from any of the characterized chemical or biochemical routes to these heterocycles. We are particularly interested in cellular physiology and the mechanistic enzymology of thiamin biosynthesis. As an example of one of the complex transformations on this pathway, the figure below shows the structure of the pyrimidine synthase catalyzing the complex rearrangement of aminoimidazole ribotide (left) to the thiamin pyrimidine (right).",Distinguished Professor,Chemistry,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n498aa35b
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
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
Zhenyu,Li,Professor,My research focuses on the mechanism of platelet activation and arterial thrombotic diseases such as heart attack and stroke. We are also interested in the crosstalk between thrombosis and inflammation in sepsis.,Professor,Pharmaceutical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n4e244e5e
Thomas,Diekwisch,Professor and Department Head,"Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering In previous studies we have generated and characterized stem cell populations in dental tissues. We have also developed novel extracellular matrix-based scaffold materials. Currently we are performing a number of studies to examine the use of stem cells and scaffolds to regenerate periodontal and other tissues.
Chromatin, Epigenetics, and microRNAs Twenty years ago, we discovered the cp27 chromatin factor in our laboratory. This factor is part of the large SRCAP chromatin complex that plays important roles in development and cell division. A second aspect of our epigenetics research is focused on the role of histone methylation in odontogenic tissue differentiation and disease.
Periodontics Our lab works on the development and differentiation of periodontal tissues as a means to generate new progenitor based approaches for the regeneration of periodontal tissues. More recently, we have conducted studies to understand how epigenetic changes affect periodontal tissue response to pathogens.
Enamel Formation and Evolution Our lab is interested in determining the mechanisms of enamel crystal formation. We are asking how mineral ions are transported toward the enamel layer and what factors govern the nucleation and elongation of enamel crystals. Using an evolutionary biology approach, we are studying the relationship between the amelogenin molecule and enamel mechanical properties.
Evolution and Development Our lab focuses on the evolution of jaws and teeth, especially tooth enamel and periodontal ligament. Specifically, we are interested in the effects of changes in the amelogenin protein on the evolution of the amazing physical properties of enamel. We are also trying to understand how the non-mineralized state of the periodontal ligament evolved in vertebrates.","Director, Center for Craniofacial Research and Diagnosis||Bernhard Gottlieb Endowed Chair for Craniofacial Research||Professor and Head, Department of Periodontics",School of Dentistry||School of Dentistry||School of Dentistry,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n52565fe6
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
Jorge,Da Silva,Professor,"Using cutting-edge technologies in molecular biology and plant genetics, my Sugarcane Breeding program at Texas A&M AgriLife Research has developed energy cane cultivars with high biomass yield, in partnership with Chevron Technologies Venture and BP Biofuels, that can be grown in a wider region of Texas and the United States, specifically designed for use in the production of bio-fuels. This program has also optimized efficient capabilities for scaling up production of feedstock planting stock. In addition, applying Next-Generation DNA sequencing techniques my program has identified and isolated genes controlling stress resistance, such as cold, which could prevent losses to the $3.8 billion US sugar industry and is developing DNA markers to tag important genes controlling cell wall composition and disease resistance.",Professor||Professor,Soil and Crop Sciences||Weslaco Research and Extension Center,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n54ad9a43
Sarah,Capik,Assistant Professor,"Dr. Capik's research interests include the characterization, transmission dynamics, diagnosis, and control of Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD). She has investigated potential methods to mitigate stress in cattle, used behavioral monitoring to identify sick cattle, and evaluated diagnostic sampling strategies for BRD.",Assistant Professor||Assistant Professor,School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences||Texas A&M AgriLife Research,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n551442f5
Mahua,Choudhury,Associate Professor,"Epigenetics, diabetes, obesity, pregnancy, preeclampsia, biomarker",Associate Professor,Nutrition,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n55b81876
Candice,Brinkmeyer-Langford,Research Associate Professor,"My research focuses on the roles of genetic diversity on neurological conditions resulting from environmental agents, such as viral infections. We use Theiler's Murine Encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV), a neurotropic virus affecting mice, and the genetically diverse Collaborative Cross mouse resource, to study the mechanisms underlying neuropathological outcomes to infection.",Research Associate Professor,Veterinary Integrative Biosciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n55d547f4
Phanourios,Tamamis,Assistant Professor,,Associate Professor,Chemical Engineering,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n5673e0c8
Mark,Burow,Professor,"Goals of the program are, in collaboration with peanut breeding programs in College Station and Stephenville to
(1) release new cultivars for Texas growers, incorporating:
high yield
improved edible seed quality -early maturity, high oleic oil
resistance to water deficit, heat, and salt stress
resistance to disease and pests, especially leafspot, nematodes, and Sclerotinia blight
(2) Participate in the International Peanut Genome Initiative, and use genomics technology in cultivar
development
(3) Participate in international collaborations with scientists, especially in Ghana and Burkina Faso
through a Peanut and Mycotoxin Innovation Lab/ USAID project",Professor||Professor,Soil and Crop Sciences||Lubbock Research and Extension Center,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n57d1bc41
Peregrine,Barboza,Professor,"The principal focus of our research is the consequences of life history and environmental change on nutrition. Our current projects are focused on ungulates (e.g., reindeer, caribou, moose, muskoxen, white-tailed deer) but we also study waterfowl (e.g. ducks and geese) as well as non-game species (e.g. porcupines and bats) in both wild and captive populations. We attempt to provide information that will expand policy options for managing wildlife populations and their habitats.",Professor,"Rangeland, Wildlife and Fisheries Management||Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences",https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n57f7ebef
Jean-Philippe,Pellois,Professor,"Our goal is to determine how proteins function in space and time in the context of complex cellular networks. We focus on chemistry-driven approaches to manipulate protein structure beyond what is feasible with standard genetics. In particular, we use semi-synthetic light-activatable proteins as biophysical probes to investigate protein mechanisms inside living cells. Areas of interest include the important but poorly understood process of protein S-acylation, signal transduction, and protein trafficking.",Professor,Biochemistry and Biophysics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n5815f42d
Ramesh,Vemulapalli,Professor of Veterinary Pathobiology,"Dr. Vemulapalli's research is primarily focused on the development of recombinant vaccines against infectious diseases. One of the targets of his vaccine research is brucellosis, a bacterial zoonotic disease caused by certain members of the genus Brucella. Brucellosis is a great concern to public health in developing countries due to widespread prevalence of Brucella infections in livestock. In the US, reservoirs of Brucella infections in wildlife, such as bison, elk, and feral swine, continue to pose a threat to livestock industries and human health. The currently available brucellosis veterinary vaccines are neither efficacious in wild animals nor safe for human use. Dr. Vemulapalli has developed novel recombinant vaccine strains that showed dramatically enhanced vaccine efficacy against brucellosis in murine models. Testing these vaccines in domestic and wild animals is a goal of his research program. Research projects in his laboratory are aimed at 1) understanding the pathogenic mechanisms of Brucella species, 2) developing attenuated Brucella strains as vectors to deliver protective proteins of other pathogens and tumors, 3) developing recombinant subunit vaccines to porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus, and 4) development of molecular diagnostics assays for infectious disease investigations.",Executive Associate Dean,School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n5889f585
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
Lixian,Zhong,Assistant Professor,"is an Assistant Professor of Rangel College of Pharmacy. Her research interest lies at the intersection of science, medicine and economics to assess clinical, economic and humanistic values of medical interventions and she conducts research on the costs and outcomes associated with pharmaceutical products.
She has conducted research using clinical trial data, real world data, large survey data and economic modeling to study cost-effectiveness of new interventions for cancer and neurological diseases. Since joining Texas A&M University as an assistant professor at the College of Pharmacy in 2015, she is conducting research in: evaluating utilization, costs and outcomes associated with medications and other health care services in patients with chronic diseases, health disparity, cost-effectiveness of new interventions, drug pricing and reimbursement.
She holds a Ph.D in Pharmacology and an M.A. in Economics from Duke University. She completed her post-doctoral fellowship training in Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes research from University of California, San Francisco. She has conducted research in academic, international organization and industry settings.",Assistant Professor,Pharmaceutical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n5b3c0e66
Audrey,Mcelroy,Professor and Extension Specialist,,Professor and Extension Specialist,Poultry Science,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n5c2d2d88
Thomas,Mcknight,Professor and Head,"My lab is currently investigating mechanisms that regulate telomerase activity in plants. We previously showed that the pattern of telomerase expression in plants is remarkably similar to the pattern seen in humans, despite fundamental differences in development between plants and animals. Telomerase is abundantly expressed in reproductive organs but is undetectable in most vegetative organs (Fitzgerald et al., 1996). Additionally, telomerase can be induced in leaves and other vegetative organs by exposure to exogenous auxin.
To isolate genes that regulate telomerase, we screened a large population of activation tagged lines of Arabidopsis thaliana, and found that several lines that ectopically express telomerase in leaves. The first line we characterized over-expressed a gene encoding a small zinc finger transcription factor we designated TELOMERASE ACTIVATOR 1 (Ren et al., 2004). This factor does not bind to the promoter for TERT, which encodes the catalytically active subunit of telomerase. Instead, it binds to and activates transcription of BT2, a gene encoding a component of a ubiquitin ligase (Ren et al., 2007). Our working model is that the BT2 ubiquitin ligase marks a telomerase repressor for destruction, thereby allowing expression of telomerase. Efforts in the lab are currently focused on identifying the presumed telomerase repressor protein and other proteins that interact with BT2.",Professor and Head,Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n5c3b294a
Kevin,Myles,Professor,,Associate Professor,Entomology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n5d73717b
Wenshe,Liu,Bovay Chair and Professor in Chemistry,"Our research interest is to design methods for the genetic incorporation of noncanonical amino acids into proteins in living cells and apply these methods in three major directions: deciphering functions of protein posttranslational modifications, small molecule sensing, and expanding chemical diversities of phage display libraries. To study protein posttranslational modifications, we have constructed methods for the site-specific installation of lysine acetylation and methylation in proteins and will apply them to study functional roles of these two modifications on p53, a tumor suppressor protein. We have also developed a strategy to site-specifically install two noncanonical amino acids into one protein in E. coli and are applying this approach to construct biosensors for small organic molecules and metal ions. Phage display is an efficient method to identify peptides for therapeutic interventions. However, a phage display peptide library has limited structure motifs and functional groups because only 20 natural amino acids can be used to generate a library. We plan to expand the chemical diversity of a phage display library by incorporating multiple noncanonical amino acids and chemically modifying them to extend functional diversities. Screening this unnatural phage display library against therapeutic targets such as c-Abl tyrosine kinase is expected to identify highly potent inhibitors.",Professor,Chemistry,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n5d9506ea
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
Gladys,Ko,Professor,,Professor,Veterinary Integrative Biosciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n5e930c1f
Olufemi,Alabi,Professor & Extension Specialist,"I conduct translational studies that address immediate and long-term needs of growers and other stakeholders involved in the production of fruit and vegetable crops. My research program emphasizes virus discovery and characterization, genetic diversity and population genetics studies, and understanding of disease epidemiology. The overarching goal is to utilize the results of these studies to develop science-based disease management strategies.",Associate Professor & Extension Specialist||Professor & Extension Specialist,Plant Pathology and Microbiology||Plant Pathology and Microbiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n61ed5404
Jon,Skare,Regents Professor and Associate Head,"Jon Skare is Regents Professor and Associate Head of the Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology in the College of Medicine at Texas A&M University. He has been a faculty member at Texas A&M since 1996 and has led a research laboratory centered around the pathogenic mechanisms operative in Borrelia burgdorferi, the spirochetal bacterium that causes Lyme disease. He has published over 50 peer reviewed manuscript, reviews, and book chapters and been funded continuously by the NIH since 1999 with over $20 million dollars in total costs. Dr. Skare has trained ten graduate students, sixteen postdoctoral fellows, and numerous undergraduate students in his research group during his time at Texas A&M. The majority of his postdoctoral trainees and students have gone on to hold academic or industry positions in the medical sciences.
Research interests are focused on microbial pathogenesis with an emphasis in spirochetal infections, particularly Borrelia burgdorferi, the etiologic agent of Lyme disease. Broad training in the molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry of prokaryotic systems is employed to answer research-related questions. Long-term interests in the lab are centered on understanding how B. burgdorferi promotes its pathogenic potential and persists in the disparate hosts it occupies in nature (e.g., both ticks and mammals). In this regard, the research program is aligned with: (i) regulatory pathways that contribute to the establishment of infection during the arthropod to mammalian transition; (ii) identifying and characterizing surface structures that contribute to the colonization and maintenance of infection via adherence mechanisms; and (iii) the ability of B. burgdorferi and relapsing fever Borrelia to persistently infect hosts in the face of a potent innate and adaptive immune response.",Professor and Associate Head,Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n638ae603
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
David,Earnest,Professor,"Research in my laboratory employs multidisciplinary approaches to study the cellular and molecular neurobiology of cell-autonomous circadian clocks and the signal transduction pathway responsible for circadian photoentrainment. The aims of current projects are to study: 1) the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) and other signaling molecules in the local temporal coordination of cell- and tissue-specific circadian clocks; 2) mutual interactions between the circadian clock mechanism, inflammatory signaling and metabolism; and 3) the mechanisms linking circadian rhythm disruption with metabolic disorders such as obesity and diabetes, and with pathological changes in neuroprotective responses to stroke.",Professor,Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n640c528f
Michael,Kolomiets,Professor,The focus of research interests of my laboratory is to investigate genes and metabolites of lipid-based biochemical and signal transduction pathways and the role they play in plant development and survival in response to pathogens.,Professor,Plant Pathology and Microbiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n64753966
Lee,Fitzgerald,Professor and Curator,"My program is best described as evolutionary ecology and conservation biology of amphibians and reptiles. I use reptiles and amphibians as study systems at the community and landscape level to address the general questions, ""What are mechanisms influencing the fit between organism and environment?"", and ""How do community-level processes influence species persistence and distribution of species across the landscape?"" This program addresses various conservation issues, for example, habitat requirements of single species, determinants of local and regional diversity, or mechanisms determining the fate of invasive and native species.",Professor and Curator,Ecology and Conservation Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n65c121ba
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
Gwendolyn,Levine,Clinical Associate Professor,,Clinical Associate Professor,Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n68f0c0ae
Jessica,Labonte,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Marine Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n6ba4cec9
Luis,Hurtado,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Ecology and Conservation Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n6d41da6a
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
Gary,Odvody,Associate Professor,"Major diseases (pathogens) occurring on sorghum and maize. These include: charcoal rot (Macrophomina phaseolina), sorghum downy mildew (Peronosclerospora sorghi), head smut (Sporisorium reilianum), aflatoxin (Aspergillus flavus), several foliar diseases, sorghum ergot (Claviceps africana) and grain mold (Fusarium moniliforme and F. thapsina).
Research areas for pathogens include ecology, survival, initial inoculum, pathogen variability, and host:parasite interaction (especially under stress environments). Part of a large interdisciplinary sorghum improvement team at Texas A&M that is active globally through INTSORMIL research activities.",Associate Professor||Associate Professor,Corpus Christi Research and Extension Center||Plant Pathology and Microbiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n6f440d68
Craig,Coates,Instructional Associate Professor,,Instructional Associate Professor,Entomology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n6f8163e8
Ivan,Ivanov,Clinical Professor,,Clinical Professor,Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n6fa588a3
Keri,Norman,Associate Professor,"My primary area of interest is in molecular epidemiology and in particular investigating selection pressures driving bacterial pathogen populations at the interface between humans, agricultural animals, and the environment. I use molecular techniques such as next generation sequencing to investigate how bacterial populations change in response to selection pressures. One example is the unintended consequences of antimicrobial use on E. coli and Salmonella populations in cattle and swine and their environments. I am also interested in using whole genome sequencing to compare bacterial populations and improve upon current typing techniques.",Assistant Professor,Veterinary Integrative Biosciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n6fb4481d
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
Keyan,Zhu Salzman,Professor,"Over millions of years of co-evolution with insects, plants have developed various defense machineries that can be activated in response to insect herbivory. Insects, in turn, have developed a variety of strategies to evade these plant defense mechanisms. An improved understanding of this complex plant defense and insect counter-defense relationship will facilitate development of better strategies to improve host plant defense. Currently, we are using Arabidopsis to study plant defense signal transduction pathways against insect pests. Meanwhile, since effectiveness of plant defense is also determined by the insect response, my laboratory is also investigating how insects adapt to the challenge of plant defense molecules, as well as to human imposed management strategies, and is working to identify new insect vulnerable systems.",Professor,Entomology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n716ece47
Frances,Ligler,Professor,,Professor,Biomedical Engineering,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n74321a1f
Endang,Septiningsih,Associate Professor,"My current research focus is plant genetics, genomics, and gene editing, with an emphasis on rice and several other crops. This covers various traits, including abiotic and biotic stresses, grain quality, yield and important agronomic traits that are important to Texas and the rest of the world. Different sources of genetic donors, including exotic germplasm will be used to increase the diversity of research material. Local, national and international research collaborations will be pursued to accelerate progress for crop improvement and broaden the research impacts.",Associate Professor,Soil and Crop Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n74b30548
Michael,Thomson,Professor,"My research expertise is in plant molecular breeding with an emphasis on rice genetics and genomics, international agriculture, and developing CRISPR-based gene editing approaches for efficient gene validation and trait development. My primary objective is to apply new genetics discoveries to rice improvement to help Texas producers and rice farmers around the world produce higher yields of superior quality rice in an environmentally sustainable manner. I am also leading the AgriLife Research Crop Genome Editing Lab to optimize high-throughput gene editing across a number of diverse crop species.",Professor,Soil and Crop Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n74c30954
Leslie,Adams,Senior Professor,"My research is focused on the: 1) investigation of the comparative molecular pathogenesis of zoonotic intracellular bacterial pathogens in natural animal models, particularly brucellosis, salmonellosis, and mycobacterial diseases; 2) development of vaccines and host gene expression-based diagnostics for zoonotic and select agent caused diseases, and especially 3) development of in silico host:pathogen interactome predictive models based upon bi-directional in vivo host (bovine/murine) and Brucella spp., Mycobacterium spp.and Salmonella enterica Typhimurium interactions. We developed an in silico computational infection biology model based on actuall temporal in vivo bovine model microarray-based transcriptomic and proteomic profiling of the acute infectious process. We developed a systems biology analysis of both host and pathogen comprehensive transcriptomic and proteomic datasets derived from our in vivo biological model. We computationally fused the datasets based on actual Salmonella, Brucella and Mycobacterium data and computationally predicted bovine host structural proteins to identify maximum likelihoods of host and pathogen protein:protein interactions as the basis for our preliminary in silico interactome model to predict mechanistic genes and linked perturbed cellular pathways.",Senior Professor,Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n75fee121
Farida,Sohrabji,University Distinguished Professor and Department Head,"My research interests lie at the intersection of neuroendocrinology, neuroinflammation and aging. For the last 10 years, my work has focused on ischemic stroke, specifically, to understand how the aging brain copes with stroke. In North America, stroke risk increases with age and in this aging demographic, women are more likely to sustain a stroke and more likely to have long term disability, poor quality of life and have more neuropsychiatric problems after stroke such as depression and cognitive impairment. This problem is compounded by the fact that few stroke therapies are available. Most stroke neuroprotectants have not been successfully translated from the bench to bedside. Using preclinical models, we have focused on acute pathological changes at the blood brain barrier and central and peripheral inflammation as well as long-term consequences, such as changes to reward pathways and post-stroke depression and dementia. I am also interested in developing novel stroke therapies for stroke in this population and our studies on epigenetic modifications such as histone methylation and non-coding (mi)RNA due to aging/stroke have provided several candidate molecules. Our recent work focuses on the role of the gut microbiome and gut metabolites on stroke recovery, and its potential for understanding the pathophysiology of stroke.
Related to my research goals, I am actively interested in promoting the inclusion of sex as a biological variable and attention to sex differences in medicine. Through medical and graduate coursework, research seminars and community talks, I am a vocal advocate for recognizing sex and gender differences in disease processes and drug therapies. I founded the Women's Health in Neuroscience program at Texas A&M University College of Medicine to create a community of researchers and foster collaboration on gender medicine and women's health, and to train new scholars in this area.",University Distinguished Professor and Department Headd,Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n772c9962
Wanhe,Li,Assistant Professor,,Assistant Professor,Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n793e9c7f
Charles,Johnson,"Director, Genomics and Bioinformatics Service","Agrigenomics and bioinformatics research and technology development. Research focusing on high throughput next generation sequencing technologies and its application in agriculture. Building an ever growing collaborative network of spanning 62 departments across Texas A&M system, and a rapidly growing list of international collaborators ( 45 countries) and industrial partners. Founding Executive Director of the Center for Bioinformatics and Genomic Systems Engineering (CBGSE).",Director Institute,Texas A&M AgriLife Research,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n79e93fe9
Kung-Hui (Bella),Chu,Professor,"Our research interests are in enhancing our understanding of microbial-mediated processes in natural and engineered systems, and in application and development of biotechnology to address various environmental challenges in water, soils, and energy. The Chu lab applies molecular biology, isotopic techniques, chemical analysis, and phage biology to study environmental and biological systems, with focuses on (i) microbial ecology, fate and transport, biodegradation of environmental pollutants such as emerging contaminants and persistent organic pollutants, (ii) production of biofuels and bioproducts from renewable resources, and (iii) detection, tracking, and quantification of microorganisms that play roles in water quality, bioremediation, carbon sequestration and nitrogen cycle in the environment. Other research areas include development and application of novel sorbents and catalysts (bio and non-bio) for removing and/or monitoring emerging environmental pollutants.",Faculty Affiliate||Professor,Civil Engineering||Energy Institute,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n7a373eec
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
Roderick,Dashwood,University Distinguished Professor,"Research integrates multiomic, genetic, epigenetic and immune approaches for precision oncology. Epigenetic readers, writers and erasers that reversibly regulate immune players in the antigen presentation pathway are of current mechanistic interest. Molecular and cell-based assays are combined with preclinical models coupled to polypectomy. Clinical specimens and organoids from patients undergoing colectomy provide for human translation. Supported by the NCI, NINDS/NIA, and the John S. Dunn Foundation.",John S. Dunn Chair in Disease Prevention||Distinguished Professor||Director,Institute of Biosciences and Technology||Center for Epigenetics and Disease Prevention||School of Medicine,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n7a63dbe7
Fuller,Bazer,Distinguished Professor,"Dr. Bazer's research in reproductive biology focuses on uterine biology and pregnancy, particularly pregnancy recognition signaling from the conceptus to the maternal uterus by interferon tau and estrogen from ruminant and pig conceptuses, respectively. The roles of uterine secretions as transport proteins, regulatory molecules, growth factors and enzymes and endocrine regulation of their secretion is another major research interest. The endocrinology of pregnancy, especially the roles of lactogenic and growth hormones in fetal-placental development and uterine functions are being studied. The mechanism(s) of action and potential therapeutic value of conceptus interferons and uterine-derived hematopoietic growth factors are areas of research with both pigs and sheep as models for human disease.",Distinguished Professor,Animal Science,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n7ad91d50
Arul,Jayaraman,Professor,,Professor,Chemical Engineering,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n7deb8230
Jason,Sylvan,Associate Professor,"Microbes are the major mediators of biogeochemical cycles on earth. Although tiny, their metabolisms have global implications. My research focuses on two aspects of microbial ecology - interactions between the ocean crust and marine microbes, and the impact of anthropogenic influence on marine microbes. I determine the effect microbial communities have on biogeochemical cycles in a variety of settings through quantification of microbial biomass, analysis of microbial diversity and function, and measurement of microbial activity. My research is interdisciplinary and involves collaboration with chemists, geologists and biological oceanographers.",Associate Professor,Oceanography,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n7fb1298a
Raul,Medina,Professor,Dr. Medina's research centers around the role that ecological factors play in the population genetics of arthropods. He is particularly interested in the incorporation of evolutionary ecology considerations into pest control practices. His laboratory is currently assessing how species interactions at macroscopic (host-parasite interactions) and microscopic (arthropod microbiomes) levels interact with genetic variation of agricultural pests and arthropod vectors of human disease. His research team is exploring if the same principles governing insect herbivores' adaptation to their hosts translate into arthropod parasites of animals. He is also interested in understanding the factors that make some biotechnology innovations in agriculture controversial in the public sphere.,Professor,Entomology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n807b8d90
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
Harvey,Scott,Professor,"Dr. H. Morgan Scott is a graduate veterinarian holding a PhD in epidemiology and post-doctoral training in public health. In addition to private veterinary practice, he has worked in both government (food safety surveillance) and academic settings. He is currently professor of epidemiology in the Department of Veterinary Pathobiology at Texas A&M University. He was recruited to Texas A&M University in 2014 as part of the Texas A&M University System Chancellor's Research Initiative and the University President's Initiative on One Health and Infectious Diseases. He relocated from Kansas State University, where he previously held the E.J. Frick Professorship in Veterinary Medicine. Much of his research emphasis has been on studying factors impacting antimicrobial resistance among commensal and pathogenic enteric bacteria in food animal production systems, with a program spanning the realm from the molecular to the sociological. In particular, he is interested in applying both epidemiological and ecological approaches to quantify the emergence, propagation, dissemination, and persistence of resistant enteric bacterial strains in integrated populations of animals, their food products, and humans. Using this knowledge, he hopes to identify opportunities to prevent and intervene against resistance among enteric pathogens in animal agriculture; preferably, by developing readily adoptable and cost-effective management practices suited to modern animal and food production systems.",Professor,Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n8499539d
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
Chunlin,Qin,Professor and Associate Department Head,,Professor and Associate Department Head,Biomedical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n8539b9ab
Rosemary,Walzem,Professor,"Dr. Walzem's core research focus within the laboratory is directed towards understanding how the structure of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins influences their ability to carry out specific nutrient delivery tasks. Her studies include identification of mechanisms and regulatory processes that control the assembly of trigylceride-rich lipoproteins in issues, structural studies of lipoproteins themselves and physiological studies to determine substrate properties and metabolic fates of different types of lipoproteins. Diet can significantly alter lipoprotein physiology through multiple mechanisms, and studies of diet effects provides a significant sub-theme to the research program. A variety of species are used to address specific questions, however, avian and human lipoprotein metabolism as it relates to egg production and atherogenesis, respectively, are emphasized.",Professor,Poultry Science,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n85cd191f
Alex,Keene,Professor and Department Head,,Professor and Department Head,Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n8650c3cf
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
Deborah,Threadgill,Assistant Professor,,Research Assistant Professor||Assistant Professor,Veterinary Pathobiology||School of Medicine,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n8734a809
Hongbin,Zhang,Professor,"My research is focused on genomics and systems biology in crop plants, particularly development of genomic and systems biological knowledge and new or advanced technologies for enhanced crop research and breeding. These include re-establishing of the molecular basis and mechanisms of genetics and biology; cloning and characterization of genes and quantitative trait loci (QTLs) controlling traits of agronomic importance; deciphering of the molecular mechanisms of biological phenomena or traits of importance such as quantitative genetics, epigenetics, crop yield, crop quality, heterosis and plant polyploidization; and development of molecular toolkits and associated pipelines for next-generation enhanced crop breeding such as gene-based breeding and crop production such as molecular precision agriculture.",Professor,Soil and Crop Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n8ad1df35
Jonathan,Levine,Professor and Head,,Professor and Head,Small Animal Clinical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n8ae2a0a7
Guilherme,Verocai,Clinical Assistant Professor,"My research focuses on understanding the biodiversity of helminth parasites of vertebrates and advancing diagnostic tools for detecting infections by vector-borne and zoonotic helminths, in special filarial nematodes, in animals and humans using molecular markers (e.g., DNA, microRNA) and innovative technologies.",Clinical Assistant Professor,Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n8b71b9ab
Clifford,Stephan,Certification Officer and Associate Professor,"The Stephan Lab is focused on drug discovery research. Dr. Stephan directs both the Combinatorial Drug Discovery Program (CDDP) core and the Microphysiological Lead Optimization and Toxicity Screening (MLOTS) facilities. The CDDP is a high throughput screening and automated microscopy core focused on discovering new therapeutics from library screening and drug repurposing alone or in multi-drug combinations. MLOTS is a low to medium throughput core focused on lead optimization for new chemical entities with the capability of testing compounds in complex in vitro models (e.g., spheroids, organoids) and de-risking drug leads by evaluating their potential cardiovascular or CNS toxicities via micro electrode array or hepatotoxcity in a microfluidic liver model.",Research Associate Professor,Institute of Biosciences and Technology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n8c431f98
Qingwu,Xue,Professor,"Develop a competitive and extramurally funded research program in the area of crop water use, water use efficiency, and abiotic and biotic stress resistance in major field crops in the Texas High Plains. The overall goal of my research program is to provide selection tools for breeders and geneticists and management tools for agronomists and producers, through better understanding the physiological mechanisms of crop performance under stress conditions. The major research focuses include understanding physiological and molecular mechanisms of drought tolerance, identifying plant traits conferring to stress tolerance, understanding the interactions of abiotic and biotic stresses, evaluating and developing field phenotyping tools, and developing management strategies under stress conditions. Advise graduate student research.",Professor||Professor||Adjunct Professor,"Soil and Crop Sciences||Texas A&M AgriLife Research||West Texas A&M University - (Canyon, Texas, United States)",https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n8c76b901
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
Nancy,Turner,Research Professor,"Dr. Turner's research program focuses on determining the impact of dietary constituents on regulatory processes that may protect against carcinogenesis and inflammation in the colon. Her lab is evaluating the effects of fiber sources and the specific phytochemicals contained within them on aspects of cellular proliferation or apoptosis, and microbial/epithelial cell interactions. The goal is to determine how these normal processes are being perturbed by chemical carcinogens, radiation or pro-inflammatory compounds, and how diet may mitigate the damage caused by them. Work conducted in the laboratory is currently funded by the United Sorghum Checkoff Board, the California Dried Plum Board, and the National Space Biomedical Research Institute.",Research Professor,Nutrition,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n8f7d7c90
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
Ken,Muneoka,Professor,My lab is focused on understanding epimorphic and tissue regeneration in mammals.,Professor,Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n9156816d
Tryon,Wickersham,Professor,,Professor,Animal Science,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n91a83cd7
Hisashi,Koiwa,Professor,,Professor,Horticultural Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n931bc4cc
Jay,Groppe,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Biomedical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n93572b3e
Nova,Silvy,Regents Professor,,Professor,"Rangeland, Wildlife and Fisheries Management||Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences",https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n9474c27a
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
Chia Shan,Wu,Research Assistant Professor,,Research Assistant Professor,Nutrition,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n954c969e
Terje,Raudsepp,Professor,"Comparative genomics and molecular cytogenetics of animals, birds and other vertebrates organization, function and evolution of sex chromosomes; equine genomics - genomics of genetic diseases and disorders of sexual development and reproduction; alpaca and camelid genomics.",Professor,Veterinary Integrative Biosciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n970d3a82
Vincent,VanBuren,Assistant Professor,,Instructional Assistant Professor,School of Medicine,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n98068f16
Larry,Suva,Professor and Head,"The development, control and diseases of the musculoskeletal system have been my scholarly interests for the past 35+ years. Understanding how the musculoskeletal system adapts and progresses throughout life is the basis of my expertise. My research focus has been the skeletal consequences of disease, such as breast cancer bone metastasis and multiple myeloma, fracture healing, osteoporosis, and most recently rare bone diseases. Current research efforts include a focus on utilizing in vivo models (murine and large animals) to discover regulatory pathways fundamental to bone physiology and the development of rare bone disease preclinical model(s) that may provide novel insight into future therapeutic directions. A critical aspect of my academic philosophy is an open door policy and the importance of one-on-one interactions. We must strive to provide training and exposure for our students as they prepare for careers both in and out of academic medicine and research. I emphatically believe that these teaching and mentoring experiences have shaped my scientific career and have helped mold my teaching and mentoring philosophy of placing the best professional, academic, social and personal development of faculty, students and staff above all else.",Professor and Head,Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n98338eea
Nancy,Ing,Professor,"Dr. Ing's research interests focus on understanding how hormones regulate gene expression in animal tissues. Current research projects investigate the earliest days of pregnancy in the sheep uterus and the regulation of estrogen receptor gene expression, as well as stress hormone effects on gene expression in the stallion testes. Most recently, we have been studying the RNAs in sperm from stallions and honey bees in order to find a pattern consistent with high fertility.",Professor,Animal Science,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n98a4a111
Rytis,Juras,Research Scientist,,Research Scientist||Research Assistant Professor,Veterinary Integrative Biosciences||Veterinary Integrative Biosciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n98bb0ed0
Bhimanagouda,Patil,"Leonard Pike Inagural University Professor and Interim Head, Food Science and Technology","Dr. Bhimu Patil is internationally recognized for his expertise and research on 'foods for health' and his related educational programs. His systems-wide farm-to-table approaches include examining pre- and postharvest effects on bioactive compounds, isolating and characterizing these compounds from different fruits and vegetables, and understanding their roles in human health. Moreover, he has a strong working relationship with produce industry stakeholders. Dr. Patil has a distinguished record of achievements in education, including leading the development of three unique courses linking agriculture, human health, and sustainability. Texas A&M University has been a leader in this area, due in part to Dr. Patil's seminal contributions in these first-of-their-kind multidisciplinary courses. Dr. Patil's contributions to education are no less distinguished. He developed and taught three unique, innovative multi-state and multi-disciplinary courses, ""Phytochemicals in Fruits and Vegetables to Improve Human Health"", ""Science of Foods for Health"" and ""The Nexus of Food & Nutritional Security, Hunger, and Sustainability"".",Professor||Professor,Nutrition||Horticultural Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n9a0e203e
Keerti,Rathore,Professor,"My current research interests are in the genetic improvement of important dicot (cotton and tomato) and monocot (rice and sorghum) crops. Protocols for efficient delivery of genes, optimal expression of transgenes, and rapid recovery of transgenic cotton, rice, and sorghum plants have been established in my laboratory. These procedures are being used to conduct both basic and applied research pertaining to crop improvement. Projects include regeneration from cell & tissue cultures, use of new reporter and selectable marker genes to understand and improve the transformation process, promoter analysis, enhancement of disease resistance in plants, conferring draught tolerance to crop plants, conferring insect resistance to crop plants, improving nutritional quality of seeds, and production of recombinant antibodies and vaccines in plants.",Professor,Soil and Crop Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/n9b4a2655
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
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
K. Yeon,Choi,Associate Professor,My research includes studying the cellular immune response of target leukocytes to cytomegalovirus infection in the fetal-placental unit and also the mechanism of CMV deafness of the developing fetus in utero. I also have a long term interest in the relationship of cancer to viral infections and will investigate the potential link of CMV and other herpesviruses to specific types of cancer.,Research Associate Professor,School of Medicine,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/na1a7ebc0
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
Chaodong,Wu,Professor and Presidential Impact Fellow,"The long-term goal of Dr. Wu's research program is to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of obesity and overnutrition-associated metabolic diseases including insulin resistance, diabetes, and fatty liver disease so that novel dietary and/or pharmacological approaches can be developed for preventing and/or treating metabolic diseases. Using molecular, cellular, and integrative approaches, the Wu lab is focused on investigating the interaction between metabolism and inflammation.",Professor||Professor,Texas A&M AgriLife Research||Nutrition,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/na24a9d43
Patrick,Stover,Vice Chancellor and Dean,,Professor||Vice Chancellor and Dean,College of Agriculture and Life Sciences||Nutrition,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/na2e4838e
Chavela,Carr,Lecturer,,Lecturer,Biochemistry and Biophysics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/na40e43dd
Bani,Mallick,Distinguished Professor,"Bayesian hierarchical Modeling, Nonparametric Regression and classification, Bioinformatics, Spatio-temporal Modeling, Machine learning, Functional Data analysis, Bayesian nonparametrics, Petroleum reservoir characterization, Uncertainty analysis of Computer Model outputs",Distinguished Professor,Statistics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/na73654e3
Julian,Hurdle,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Institute of Biosciences and Technology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/na747fce2
Monique,Rijnkels,Research Associate Professor,"We are studying transcriptional regulation and the genomics of the mammary gland and the role of epigenetic events during mammary gland development and lactation. We use various genomics approaches to mammary gland biology and my laboratory has been using ChIP-seq, DNase-seq, ATAC-seq and other epigenomic approaches to determine chromosomal states at different developmental time points to determine the role of epigenetic regulation in mammary gland development and understand gene regulation in the mammary gland in general. We use transgenic mouse models to study gene regulation in mammary gland development and lactation.",Research Associate Professor,Veterinary Integrative Biosciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/na956415b
Qingyi,Yu,Associate Professor,"My main research interest is to apply genomics and molecular genetics to crop improvement. Current research topics include genomics of abiotic stress tolerance in warm-season turfgrass, gene regulatory networks underlying CAM photosynthesis in pineapple, and sex chromosome evolution in Caricaceae.",Associate Professor,Texas A&M AgriLife Research,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/naa660c01
Karen,Snowden,Professor and Associate Department Head,"Parasites of public health importance, host-parasite interactions, development of animal models for the study of parasitologic diseases and treatments, and development of molecular and immunologic methods for parasitologic diagnosis.",Professor and Associate Department Head,Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/naab1ec85
David,Zawieja,Regents Professor and Department Head,"My lab has had a number of research projects focusing on the study of lymphatic structure and function. Each of these projects has, as one of their objectives, the evaluation of the mechanisms (molecular, cellular, mechanical and tissue-level) regulating different aspects of lymphatic function. These projects focus on the ionic/calcium, contractile/regulatory proteins, molecular pathways that regulate lymph transport, lymphatic muscle function, the role of lymphatic function in the generation and resolution of tissue inflammation and the interactions between immune cells and the lymphatic cells. To support this work we have established cultured cell lines of both endothelial and muscle isolated from microlymphatics, acute and cultured isolated microlymphatic tissues, methodologies to evaluate lymphatic function at the single vessel, whole tissue and animal levels, methodologies to target cell-specific gene manipulation in isolated lymphatic tissues, approaches to microscopically image and model lymphatic network structure and function in 3D in lab animals. We have also evaluated the effects of space flight, various inflammatory mediators and other immune activation processes on lymphatic contractile and transport function and how these affect immunity. Finally, we have evaluated different types of lymphatic pathology resulting in lymphedema, various inflammatory diseases and immune dysfunction.",Regents Professor and Head||Professor and Associate Department Head,The Texas A&M University System||Medical Physiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nad1e71e4
Aaron,Tarone,Professor,"The Tarone laboratory is interested in factors that lead to local adaptations of fly development times and body sizes. These traits are influenced by numerous genetic and environmental factors. They are also ecologically important life history traits for any organism and are frequently found to be under differential selection across populations of numerous fly species. Accordingly, there are many applied and theoretical reasons for dissecting the causes of variation in these phenotypes in flies that influence human activities.",Professor,Entomology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nae6767b7
Ian,Tizard,Dr.,"Immunology with an emphasis on innovative vaccine technology and on the immunology of domestic mammals.Avian diseases with an emphasis on diseases of psittacines, Paleovirology,Genomics with an emphasis on whole avian genomes.The intestinal microbiome and its role in immunity.",University Distinguished Professor,School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/naefbabcf
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
Kranthi,Mandadi,Associate Professor,"World-wide, pathogens, insects and abiotic stresses cause major losses to agricultural production and productivity. Our lab employs integrated approaches for basic and translational studies of crop stress responses in model and crops. We are using the latest genomics, genetics, and bioinformatics tools to study plant stress responses to diverse plant biotic and abiotic stress conditions, as well as enhance their stress tolerance using biotechnology and breeding tools.",Associate Professor||Associate Professor,Plant Pathology and Microbiology||Texas A&M AgriLife Research,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nb05fab89
Stephen,Safe,Distinguished Professor,The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a nuclear helix-loop-helix transcription factor which forms a ligand-induced nuclear heterodimer with the AhR nuclear translocator (Arnt) protein. Research in this laboratory is focused on the molecular mechanism of crosstalk between the AhR and estrogen receptor (ER) signaling pathways in which the AhR inhibits estrogen-induced gene expression. The antiestrogenic activities of some AhR agonists are also being developed as drugs for clinical treatment of breast and endometrial cancers in women. Research on estrogen-dependent gene expression in various cancer cell lines is focused on analysis of several gene promoters to determine the mechanisms of ERa and ERb action. This includes several genes that are activated through interactions of the ER with Sp1 protein and other DNA-bound transcription factors.,Distinguished Professor||Distinguished Professor||Syd Kyle Chair,School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences||Biochemistry and Biophysics||Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nb20fdbd9
David,Reiner,Associate Professor,he Reiner lab research is divided into two general areas: mechanisms of cell signaling and harnessing model genetic organisms for drug discovery and translational biology.,Associate Professor,Institute of Biosciences and Technology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nb2849771
Sang Jin,Suh,Associate Professor,"There are several research foci in the Suh laboratory. First, we are interested in elucidating and understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in the survival of pathogenic bacteria in nature and the contribution of these mechanisms to aid these pathogens in their ability to cause human diseases.
Second, we are interested in developing peptide based biosensors for rapid detection of important bacterial pathogens. Our biosensors can detect pathogens in just minutes rather than hours or days of other approaches. Third, we are interested in genetic and metabolic engineering to develop bacterial cells into microbial factory for optimal production of value-added products.",Associate Professor,Biomedical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nb2c8b3d4
Ivan,Rusyn,Professor,"My laboratory has an active research portfolio funded by the National Institutes of Health and the US EPA with a focus on the mechanisms of action of environmental toxicants and the genetic determinants of the susceptibility to toxicant-induced injury. Through a combination of in vivo animal studies and experiments that utilize cellular and molecular models, we aim to better understand why certain chemicals cause cancer or organ damage in rodents and whether humans in general, or any susceptible sub-population in particular, are at risk from similar exposures.
The main focus of our inter-disciplinary research is on improving the linkages between exposures and adverse health effects Specifically, we develop innovative experimental methods and computational tools which enable analysis of data across multiple dimensions including SNPs, -omic endpoints, multiple chemicals and traditional toxicity phenotypes.","Professor, Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology",School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nb3daa5ce
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
Thomas,DeWitt,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,Ecology and Conservation Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nb4aed80b
Mariana,Mateos,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,"Rangeland, Wildlife and Fisheries Management||Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences",https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nb7331dd1
Siegfried,Musser,Professor,"The primary focus of my laboratory is to decipher how proteins partition into different sub-compartments of the cell. Cellular membranes serve to compartmentalize biochemical reactions to specific microenvironments. Proteins cross these membranes via a diverse array of protein translocation systems, or translocons. My laboratory has investigated the detailed molecular function of three different protein transport machineries, the human nuclear pore complex (NPC) and the bacterial Sec and Tat general secretion machineries. We are a biophysics lab and our primary tools for deciphering molecular mechanisms and dynamics are super-resolution imaging and single molecule particle tracking approaches. Our aim is to develop detailed, molecular-scale, mechanistic models of protein transport processes. We recently demonstrated 3D imaging of cargo transport through nuclear pores on the millisecond timescale with 5-15 nm precision in all three dimensions. This will be a major tool going forward for multiple projects.
In 2018, we began a new project on membrane-less organelles, which are micrometer-scale cellular structures known as biomolecular condensates (BMCs) that contain high concentrations of intrinsically disordered proteins and RNA. These BMCs are generally agreed to arise from liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS), which is the spontaneous partitioning into dense and dilute phases due to favorable interactions between the separating molecules. The high density of aggregation prone proteins in BMCs is thought to lead to the cellular inclusions found in patients with multiple neurological diseases including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. We are using super-resolution and single molecule methods to probe the structural and dynamic heterogeneity of condensates formed from the fused in sarcoma (FUS) protein to identify the conditions that lead to solidification of liquid condensates (phase maturation).",Professor,Cell Biology and Genetics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nb824aefa
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
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
Roula,Mouneimne,Research Professor,"For the past 24 years my research focused on: 1- The development of methods in the fluorescence microscopy field that achieve data acquisition and analysis in real time, quantitative analysis, and mathematical modeling of cellular signaling. 2- The development of novel technological tools to decipher molecular and physiological events in cells and immunological tissues under normal toxin exposure and disease conditions.",Research Professor,Veterinary Integrative Biosciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nbb6c8c2a
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
Joseph,Veldman,Associate Professor,"In the Veldman Lab at Texas A&M University, we study relationships among plant species, ecosystem functions, and human-induced environmental change. Fire - both as an ancient ecological force and as a management tool - is central to our research on the conservation and restoration of tropical and subtropical savannas and forests. Through interdisciplinary collaborations and outreach to environmental organizations, we work to improve public policies that impact fire-dependent ecosystems and human livelihoods.",Assistant Professor,Ecology and Conservation Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nbc6131af
Nicolaas,Deutz,Professor,"My research background and expertise focus on nutrition, metabolism, and physiology studies involving the use of stable isotope methodologies, both in humans and animals. I also have extensive experience with isotopic calculations, validation and data interpretation.",Professor,Primary Care and Rural Medicine,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nbd596655
Brian,Porter,Clinical Professor,Comparative neuropathology; canine gliomas and canine spinal trauma as models for the human conditions; wildlife disease and environmental conservation,Clinical Professor,Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nc00264c7
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
Gabriel,Hamer,Associate Professor,"Research in the Hamer Lab broadly investigates the ecology of infectious diseases of humans, wild animals, and domestic animals, with particular attention to those transmitted by arthropod vectors (e.g. mosquitoes, ticks, kissing bugs). We have focused primarily on vector-host interactions that lead to parasite amplification and increased disease risk. We utilize multidisciplinary tools to studying these complex disease systems, including molecular biology, landscape epidemiology, eco-immunology, and ecological modeling. A goal of our research is to elucidate mechanisms of transmission across space and time that facilitate ecological management of diseases with effective intervention and preventative strategies.",Assistant Professor,Entomology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nc1f3fc64
Vernon,Tesh,Professor,,Professor,Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nc2165f28
Susan,Bloomfield,Professor,"My research interests focus on the integrative physiology of bone, with specific reference to adaptations to disuse, microgravity, and caloric deficiency.",Professor,Kinesiology and Sport Management,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nc2a60db1
Kevin,Burgess,Professor,"We use novel strategies Exploring Key Orientations (EKO) that feature datamining to compare simulated preferred conformers of chemotypes we design with key features at protein-protein interfaces. Many chemotype candidates can be screened against one PPI, or one chemotype can be screened against all the PPI interfaces in the PDB. Virtual hit chemotypes are prepared in my lab, then tested against protein-protein interactions of biomedicinal interest using an array of biophysical and cellular assays.
We also design small molecules to target cell surface receptors that are selectively overexpressed in cancer cells. Much or our work has been focused on the TrkC receptor that is particularly important to metastatic breast cancer and melanoma. Going forwards we are interested in expanding the targets to include cell surface receptors that are overexpressed when cancer cells undergo aberrant epithelial to mesenchymal transitions (EMT) to produce circulating tumor cells and cancer stem cells. Much of this work involves design and synthesis of the small molecules for this targeting.",Professor,Chemistry,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nc4a5cad4
Gary,Voelker,Professor,"I am an ornithologist/evolutionary biologist, and my lab focuses primarily on developing molecular phylogenies of avian lineages (and now a few mammals), and using these phylogenies to address questions posed by relationships within those lineages. To date, this research has focused on genera that are distributed on two or more continents (Anthus (pipits), Motacilla (wagtails), Cinclus (dippers) and Turdus (thrushes)). In addition to resolving species relationships and revising taxonomy, work in my lab has has dealt with reconstructing historical biogeography and examining the relative roles that dispersal and vicariance (e.g., mountain uplift) may have played in the development of modern day species distributions and assemblages.",Professor,"Rangeland, Wildlife and Fisheries Management||Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences",https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nc63d7bcc
Pete,Teel,Regents Professor,"Biology, ecology and management of ticks associated with humans, livestock, wildlife and companion animals.",Professor and Associate Department Head,Entomology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nc6ba6feb
William,Rooney,Professor,"The long-range goal of my sorghum improvement program is to enhance the productivity and profitability of grain, forage and bioenergy sorghum production systems. The sorghum breeding program is used as a mechanism to develop and release sorghum germplasm to meet this goal. In addition to the release of improved sorghum genotypes, research in the program emphasizes the genetic and molecular genetic inheritance of disease resistance, grain quality and agronomic productivity and adaptability. The research provides opportunities for graduate student training in fundamental and applied aspects of plant improvement. Specific research interests include the development of sorghum germplasm for bioenergy (both sweet and biomass), grain and forage Instruct SCSC 642 annually each fall semester.",Professor,Soil and Crop Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nc74bd61f
Sakiko,Okumoto,Associate Professor,"The overall goal of my research is to understand how nitrogen (N), quantitatively the most important nutrient in crops, is managed in plants. Specifically, my research aims at how amino acids, one of the main forms of organic N in plant body, is transported. In order to study such mechanisms in detail, we have developed protein-based, fluorescent sensors that allow us to track amino acids in live cells. We utilize these sensors to discover novel molecular mechanisms that are involved in the regulation of amino acids. We are currently interrogating the processes in which amino acid exporters are involved in, using various genetic resources such as T-DNA insertion mutants and gene editing tools. We are also interested in developing novel sensors for other biologically important molecules.",Associate Professor,Soil and Crop Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nc97dd3d8
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
John,Hettema,Professor,"I am Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at Texas A&M Health Sciences Center and affiliate faculty member at the Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics (VIPBG) at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). As a clinician-scientist, I have participate in patient care, clinical teaching, and research activities. Before coming to TAMU in 2019, I directed the VCU Anxiety Disorders Specialty Clinic for 19 years, providing residency training and patient care via the assessment and treatment of all the major anxiety and related disorders. My research efforts focus on the epidemiology, genetics, and biology of the anxiety and related internalizing disorders. I have extensive experience applying advanced statistical genetic methodology to these questions via analyses conducted in twin, family, and population-based samples. My recent projects include conducting meta-analyses of genomewide association data on anxiety spectrum disorders (ANGST GWAS project, R01MH087646 and PGC-ANX project, R01MH113665), examining the effects of novel candidate genes derived from GWAS on internalizing psychopathology (R01MH039096), and collecting and analyzing endophenotypic measures underlying the development of internalizing disorders in a juvenile twin sample (R01MH098055). My research has been funded by NIH and private foundation grants. I am founding co-chair of the PGC-ANX Working Group which provides active collaborations with anxiety and depression researchers around the world.",Professor,Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ncd3506c7
Amit,Dhingra,Professor and Department Head,,Professor and Department Head,College of Agriculture and Life Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ncefd1f49
Gregory,Sword,Professor,"I've been very fortunate to have studied many things in many places with many people. Much of my research to date has focused on the biology and ecology of grasshoppers, locusts and Mormon crickets. More recently, I've been given the chance to expand my research program to problems in cotton entomology. It's a pretty unique opportunity, and I am happy to say that the lab is up and running on multiple fronts. Although the emphasis has shifted to cotton research, locust biology and anything else that strikes an interest continues to be fair game in the lab.",Professor,Entomology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ncf7fa344
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
Shuyu,Liu,Professor,"Genetic and genomic studies of important traits of wheat in the US Great Plains. Traits include drought and heat tolerance, resistance to diseases (leaf, stem and stripe rust, wheat streak mosaic virus), and arthropods (greenbug, Russian wheat aphid, hessian fly, and wheat curl mite) as well as good end-use quality. Both traditional and molecular breeding techniques are used to develop germplasm lines with one or more target traits. Genomic techniques include gene/QTL mapping, molecular marker identification, validation and utilization, high throughput KASP SNP screening, and gene cloning. Gene functional analysis will be used to understand and improve those target traits.
1. Genetic mapping and genomics studies of QTL for yield, yield components under dry and irrigated conditions, and other traits in adapted cultivars; Study drought tolerance through transcriptomics of water stressed wheat plants.
2. Developing germplasm lines with multiple favorable alleles with drought tolerance, insect and wheat streak mosaic virus resistances using high throughput and diagnostic KASP SNP.
3. Cloning of greenbug resistance gene, identification of candidate genes through molecular techniques.",Professor,Soil and Crop Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nd1249c47
Fen,Wang,Professor,"The laboratory focuses on understanding the molecular basis of cell signaling, and how aberrant cell signaling leads to birth defects and causes cancers. Using in vitro cell culture systems and in vivo mouse models, we study how the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) activates its receptor (FF) tyrosine kinase, and how the activated FF transmits the signals to downstream targets and regulates proliferation, differentiation, homeostasis, and function of the cells, as well as in organogenesis and development, including prostate and cardiovascular system development. The laboratory also employs molecular biology, cell biology, and mouse genetic technologies to study how aberrant FGF signals promote tumor initiation, progression, and metastasis. In addition, how environmental factors contribute to tumorigenesis and congenital birth defects by modulating FGF signal intensity and specificity is also under the scope of our research interests.",Professor,Institute of Biosciences and Technology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nd5ef47ba
Terry,Gentry,Professor,"My research focuses on the development and use of molecular technologies to enhance the detection and remediation of environmental contamination. This includes the detection and identification of microbial pathogens from animal, human, and natural sources and also the characterization of microbial populations and communities contributing to applied remediation processes such as the bioremediation of organic and metal contaminants.",Professor,Soil and Crop Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nd695d1d9
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
Karen,Mansell,Clinical Professor,Comparative pathology with particular interest in dermatopathology. The effects of systemic disease on skin. The use of immunohistochemistry in neoplastic and inflammatory skin disease.,Clinical Professor,Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nd885c362
Rodolfo,Cardoso,Assistant Professor,Dr. Cardoso's research interests focus on understanding the impact of the prenatal and early postnatal environments on reproductive neuroendocrine function in females using sheep and cattle as animal models to benefit both the livestock industry as well as human reproductive health. The Cardoso Lab integrates whole animal physiology with cellular and molecular biology to elucidate the mechanisms by which the perinatal environment can modulate several reproductive processes in the offspring. Dr. Cardoso's teaching interests range from practical reproductive management of livestock to advanced reproductive neuroendocrinology.,Assistant Professor,Animal Science,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nd8c042ef
Alan,Pepper,Associate Professor,"My laboratory uses genetic, molecular, and genomic tools to study how terrestrial plants adapt, both in a short-term sense (phenotypic plasticity) and in a long-term sense (adaptive evolution), to the vast diversity of environments found on our planet.
My laboratory is studying the molecular and physiological mechanisms of 'downstream' developmental responses to light using genetic and molecular tools available in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana. In another project, we are using comparative genomics to investigate the genetic basis of the evolution-under-domestication of developmental processes in cultivated cottons (Gossypium spp.) and their wild relatives. Gossypium is in the Malvaceae family and, as such, shares a recent common ancestor with Arabidopsis and other plants in the Brassicaceae family.
We are also investigating the genetic mechanisms of plant adaptation to the stresses of extreme environments such as drought, low mineral nutrients (N,P,K) and heavy metals, in wild relatives of Arabidopsis, such as the rare endemic plant Caulanthus amplexicaulis (Brassicaceae.) This work has led us to become more broadly interested in the conservation and ecological genetics of rare plants, particularly geoendemics.",Associate Professor,Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ndc106a4d
Sarah,Hamer,Professor,,Professor,Veterinary Integrative Biosciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ndc2c4e3e
Zachary,Adelman,Professor,,Associate Professor,Entomology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ndc81a8e5
Fadi,Khasawneh,Associate Professor and Department Head of Pharmaceutical Sciences,,Associate Professor and Department Head of Pharmaceutical Sciences,Pharmacy Practice,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ndc85f0d1
Christine,Budke,Professor,,Professor and interim Head,Veterinary Integrative Biosciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ndf6eb879
Young-Ki,Jo,Professor and Extension Specialist,"The principal focus of my research and extension deals with the management of diseases associated with turfgrass, rice, and soybean. Studies have been conducted to develop molecular identification methods of causal pathogens and to improve cultural and chemical strategies to manage diseases in the field.",Associate Professor and Extension Specialist,Plant Pathology and Microbiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ne0256512
Raquel,Rech,Clinical Associate Professor,Diagnostic and comparative pathology with emphasis in Neuropathology; Pathogenesis of infectious diseases and toxic plants in food animals and horses.,Clinical Associate Professor,Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ne4a280f0
Cecilia,Tamborindeguy,Professor,"Our laboratory studies transmission of plant pathogens by insects. Research is aimed at understanding ecological and molecular aspects of plant-insect-pathogen interactions. We use Zebra Chip (ZC),an emergent disease affecting solanaceous plants, as model system. The causative agent, ""Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum"", is an alpha-proteobacterium vectored y the potato/tomato psyllid Bactericera cockerelli. We currently use genetic and biochemical approaches to investigate different aspects of pathogen transmission and the biology of the vector insect.",Professor,Entomology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ne6e645ee
Chao,Tian,Associate Professor - Term Appoint,,Associate Professor - Term Appoint,Electrical and Computer Engineering,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ne78dd90b
Hays,Rye,Associate Professor,"A fundamental principle of biology is the use of chemical energy in the form of ATP to assemble, disassemble and alter macromolecular structure. Specialized control proteins known as molecular chaperones are often responsible for this activity and have been recognized in recent years to be essential for regulating many aspects of cellular biology. Using a variety of biophysical and biochemical techniques, the Rye lab focuses on three fundamental cellular processes that require molecular chaperones: (1) protein folding (2) protein disaggregation and (3) vesicle trafficking. In each of these cases, large quantities ATP are burned, resulting in molecular organization in the case of protein folding, and molecular disassembly and remodeling in the case of protein disaggregation and vesicle trafficking. We are interested in understanding the detailed biophysical mechanisms that underpin these events. Why are these processes so energetically expensive? Are there any similarities in how the energy is used between these very different molecular processes? Are there general principles of energy transduction in biology that can be gleaned by comparing these examples with other molecular machines, such as cytoskeletal motors? Understanding how molecular chaperones control protein and membrane organization will provide key insights into not only basic cell biology, but will also illuminate aspects of many diseases that spring from aberrant protein and membrane dynamics.",Associate Professor,Biochemistry and Biophysics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ne7fb85e1
Joe,Arosh,Professor,,Professor,Veterinary Integrative Biosciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ne8898820
Darrell,Pilling,Research Assistant Professor,,Research Assistant Professor,Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ne8a9ecc1
Leif,Andersson,Professor,,Professor,Veterinary Integrative Biosciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ne8ae2a28
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
Albert,Mulenga,"Professor and Interim head, Veterinary Pathobiology","For generations ticks and tick borne diseases have had significant impact of animal health and livestock productivity around the world. In public health the effect of ticks and tick borne diseases is also tremendous. Since the 1980s when the causative agent of Lyme disease was described, numerous human tick borne diseases have been reported. In absence of effective vaccines against major tick borne diseases, prevention of animal and human tick borne disease infections relies on the use chemicals (acaricides) to kill ticks. Although acaricide based tick control methods are effective in the short-term, they do not offer a permanent solution because of serious limitations such as ticks developing resistance and contamination of the environment and the food chain. Immunization of animals against is a validated alternative tick control method. The attraction is that tick vaccines will be effective against both acaricide resistant and susceptible tick populations. The major limiting factor is the availability of effective tick vaccine targets. The tick cannot cause damage to host or transmit disease agents without successful feeding. Thus, our plan is to understand molecular mechanisms of how ticks accomplish feeding. In this way we will find targets that will be used for development of effective tick vaccines. We are currently studying the feeding physiology of the blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis) and the Lone Star tick (Amblyomma americanum). According to the US Centers for Disease Control, these two medically important tick species transmit a combined nine of the 14 human tick borne disease agents in the United States. Major work is on discovery and characterization of proteins that the Lone Star and the Blacklegged tick into animals every 24h through out feeding. The area of particular emphasis is to understanding roles of serine protease inhibitors (serpins) the blacklegged tick and the Lone Star tick inject into animals during feeding. We have identified serpins",Professor and associate head||Professor & Interim Head,School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences||Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ne8f0c620
Jeffery,Tomberlin,Professor,"My areas of interest and expertise are the ecology and biology of flies associated with decomposing matter. Primarily, my research falls into two categories, 1) determine proper methods for suppressing fly populations associated with animal waste on confined animal facilities, 2) understanding the biology of insects that colonize human remains in order to assist law enforcement personnel in estimating the time of colonization of a corpse in order to provide a minimum postmortem interval.",Associate Professor,Entomology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ne8fb4d5b
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
Wayne,Versaw,Professor,"Compartmentalization of metabolic pathways and other cellular functions is a hallmark of eukaryotic cells. This feature is extreme in plants due to the presence of organelles not found in most other eukaryotes - plastids. Plastids are a diverse group of interrelated organelles that perform a wide range of metabolic functions including photosynthesis, nitrogen and sulfur assimilation and the synthesis of amino acids, starch and fatty acids. These functions are coordinated with metabolic processes in the cytosol through dynamic exchange of metabolites and ions across the plastid inner envelope membrane.
My lab is studying phosphate (Pi) transport processes that link the metabolic pathways in the plastid and cytosol. The concentrations of Pi in the cytosol and plastid stroma influence photosynthesis and the partitioning and storage of fixed carbon. Transporters involved in the movement of Pi across the plastid inner membrane include members of the pPT, PHT2 and PHT4 families. We are using genetics, cell biology, biochemistry and molecular physiology to investigate the function and physiological roles of these transporters. Recent findings suggest that some members of the PHT4 family are targeted to chloroplasts, whereas others function in heterotrophic plastids and one resides in the Golgi apparatus.
Other projects in the lab include the genetic and biochemical characterization of Pi transport processes in the filamentous fungus Neurospora crassa. Mutants with altered phosphate uptake properties have been isolated, and these have led to the identification of Pi transporter genes, as well as genes with putative regulatory functions.",Professor,Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nea6b0d01
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
Thomas,Welsh,Professor,"Areas of research for Dr. Welsh include developing endocrine-based biotechnologies to selectively and precisely regulate growth and reproduction in livestock; in vitro and in vivo methodologies used to identify mechanisms whereby specific hormones regulate the biosynthesis of pituitary, adrenal, gonadal and hypothalamic hormones; and correlative in vivo and in vitro studies conducted using bovine, equine, porcine and ovine animal models.",Professor||Professor,Animal Science||Texas A&M AgriLife Research,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/neae2cac6
James,Derr,Professor,"Dr. Derr has directed worldwide research projects in wildlife and livestock conservation genetics for over 25 years. This body of work has produced more than 75 scientific publications reporting original research on many different species. For example, Dr. Derr has authored articles on bison, dolphins, domestic and wild cats, elk, pronghorn antelope, sheep, quail, white-tailed and mule deer, whales, domestic livestock and multiple fish species. All of this conservation genetics research has been funded through international, federal, state, NGO and private funding sources including the DSC and DSC Foundation. In addition, Dr. Derr is an impactful educator through his teaching efforts in undergraduate genetic courses to students interested in medicine (human and veterinary) and he has mentored over 100 graduate students in the fields of conservation / population genetics and animal health. One of Dr. Derr's most popular courses is ""Wildlife Conservation Medicine"". This course is designed for first- and second-year veterinary students to travel to South Africa and Botswana to learn how to chemically immobilize, treat and transport everything from African plains game to dangerous game. His efforts with these young veterinarians ensure they graduate with specialized knowledge and skills to handle health care and conservation issues with the tremendous number of exotic wildlife species here in the State of Texas on private ranches and preserves.",Professor,Veterinary Pathobiology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nebe46b3d
Thomas,Iliffe,Professor,"For the past 40 years, Iliffe has conducted studies of biodiversity, ecology, evolution, and conservation of animals inhabiting saltwater caves. In addition to his extensive cave investigations in Bermuda, he has led biospeleological research expeditions to the Bahamas, Belize, Mexico, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Canary Islands, Iceland, Mallorca, Romania, former Czechoslovakia, Gal?pagos, Hawaii, and numerous locations in the Indo-Pacific. This research has resulted in the discovery of more than 300 new species of marine animals, mostly crustaceans, inhabiting caves in the Atlantic, Caribbean, and Indo-Pacific. Iliffe's research has been funded by grants from the National Science Foundation, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the National Geographic Society, among others. He has published 250 papers, including 30 invited book chapters. TV documentaries featuring his cave diving research expeditions can be seen on the National Geographic Channel, BBC, PBS, History Channel, Discovery Channel, and others.",Professor,Marine Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/ned849b62
Stephen,Smith,Professor,"Dr. Smith teaches meat science, nutrition and physiological nutrition courses. He also conducts research on the growth and development of adipose tissue, particularly in the bovine species. He has investigated the limitation of cattle to marble and has used his background in molecular biology to investigate lipid metabolism in the bovine muscle.",Professor||Professor,Animal Science||Nutrition,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nee8e5966
Jessica,Light,Associate Professor,,Associate Professor,"Rangeland, Wildlife and Fisheries Management||Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences",https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nef845312
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
Jan,Suchodolski,Professor,"Our research is focused on gastrointestinal function testing, gastrointestinal pathogens, and intestinal microbial ecology with an emphasis on probiotics and prebiotics and how intestinal pathogens lead to disturbances in the intestinal microbiome of companion animals.",Associate Director of GI Lab||Professor,Small Animal Clinical Sciences||Small Animal Clinical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nf0f36949
Hojun,Song,Associate Professor,"The Song Lab focuses on the study of an insect order Orthoptera (grasshoppers, crickets, and katydids) and other insects and aims at understanding behavioral, ecological, physiological, morphological and molecular evolution in a phylogenetic framework.",Associate Professor,Entomology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nf14bbe4a
John,Mullet,Professor,"Functional genomics, bioinformatics, and DNA chip technology are fundamentally changing research on biological systems. Knowledge of complete genome sequences and high resolution genome technology provide an extraordinary opportunity to understand complex biological processes and to relate detailed understanding of protein structure and biochemical mechanism to the function of whole organisms and biological systems in nature.
Our research team is helping to build genome maps and DNA diagnostic microarrays/chips for analysis of global gene expression and biodiversity. This new technology is being used to explore the molecular basis of several fundamental plant responses: (1) light responsive genetic systems that help protect plants from damage by high intensity UV/blue light; (2) genetic systems that allow plants to adapt to the environment; (3) genes and signal transduction pathways that help protect plants from insects and disease; and (4) genes that regulate plant development (flowering time, fertility restoration, chloroplast development/number).",Professor,Biochemistry and Biophysics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nf1c81fcb
Noah,Cohen,Distinguished Professor and Associate Department Head,,Distinguished Professor and Associate Department Head,Large Animal Clinical Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nf22c59c1
Richard,Gomer,Distinguished Professor,"Our laboratory is working on three areas of biomedicine, trying to move observations from basic research into the clinic. First, we are studying how the sizes of tissues and tumors are regulated, and how this can be manipulated for therapeutic purposes. As a model system, we are using the simple eukaryote Dictyostelium discoideum, which allows us to combine techniques such as biochemistry, genetics, computer modeling, and cell biology to study tissue size regulation. We have found that a secreted protein as well as the unusual molecule polyphosphate are signals in negative feedback loops that inhibit Dictyostelium cell proliferation, and we are studying the signal transduction pathway to understand similar mechanisms in humans.
Second, we are studying how some secreted proteins can make cells move away from the source of the signal. We found such a signal (called a chemorepellent) in Dictyostelium, and then found a similar signal in humans. We are working to understand the signal transduction pathway for both. The human signal repels neutrophils, and we found that this can be used therapeutically in mouse models of neutrophil-driven diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and acute respiratory distress syndrome.
Third, we have found that a human blood protein called Serum Amyloid P (SAP) regulates a key step in the formation of scar tissue as well as the formation of the scar-like lesions in fibrosing diseases such as congestive heart failure and pulmonary fibrosis. We are studying this mechanism, and a biotech company (Promedior, now sold to Roche) we co-founded is testing SAP as a therapy for fibrosis in patients in a Phase 3 trials.",Distinguished Professor,Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nf41f3898
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
Louise,Abbott,Professor,,Professor,Veterinary Integrative Biosciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nf56a7148
Jiang,Chang,Professor,"Heart failure (impaired ventricular pump function) is an eventual outcome for diverse cardiovascular disorders and the leading cause of combined morbidity and mortality in the United States and other developed industrial nations. The focus of my lab is to understand the molecular and cellular mechanisms that initiate and mediate the pathogenesis of maladaptive cardiac remodeling, such as cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis as result of various pathological scenarios such as myocardial infarction, hypertension, obesity, diabetes, aging and post-traumatic stress disorder. The overall approach consists of generation and analysis of clinically-relevant genetic mouse models including a tool mouse enabling tracking endogenous cardiac exosomes, and conduct mechanistic studies using cutting-edge technology. The ultimate goal of our efforts is to provide clinical translation for the prevention and treatment of pathological cardiac remodeling from our mechanistic studies.",Professor,Center for Genomic and Precision Medicine,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nf80a9dad
Kevin,Conway,Associate Professor,"The central goal of the TAMU Systematic Ichthyology Laboratory is to document the taxonomic, anatomical, ontogenetic, and genetic diversity of teleost fishes. Teleost fishes are without-a-doubt the most successful group of fishes (and probably vertebrates) on the planet currently and have colonized almost all available aquatic habitats (and even some terrestrial habitats). The morphological diversity of teleosts is unparalleled by any other group of vertebrates, ranging in size from tiny 7mm long minnows to 10meter long oar fish, and in shape from ribbon-like eels to globe-like pufferfishes. We investigate this diversity not only to further our understanding of vertebrate anatomy in general but also to discover novel characters to advance our understanding of the phylogenetic relationships of select groups of teleost fishes. Our investigations frequently lead to the discovery of previously unrecognized taxonomic diversity and one of the broader aims of the TAMU Systematic Ichthyology Laboratory is to document this diversity through the description of new species.",Associate Professor,Ecology and Conservation Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nfaafc469
Uel,Mcmahan,Professor,"McMahan and his research group provide one of the cornerstones for Texas A&M's new Interdisciplinary Life Sciences Building and its related teaching and research efforts. His work focuses on how the nervous system's synapses form in the embryo and function in the adult in various animal species. It relies on high-resolution imaging, chemical characterization and experimental manipulation of specific macromolecules and organelles, which altogether provide insights unobtainable via any other approach. The findings bear directly on the problems of understanding the molecular basis of human brain diseases and restoring brain function after trauma.",Professor,Biology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nfc3672e7
J,Johnston,Professor,"I estimate genome size for sequencing projects for a very wide range of vertebrates, invertebrates and plants..
I work on genome size evolution, & genomics.
My other areas of research include cytological, ecological and population genetics of arthropods.",Professor,Entomology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nfc3f68fb
Darwin,Prockop,Professor,,Professor,Cell Biology and Genetics,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nfcfd0990
Magnus,Hook,Professor,"The primary interest of our laboratory is to try to understand the structural function of the extracellular matrix. Of particular interest is the study of the molecular mechanisms of microbial adhesion to host tissue. This process, which is believed to represent a critical initial step in the development of infections, involves specific cell-surface proteins that recognize and bind with a high affinity to components in the host tissue. Our goal is to decipher these events at a molecular level and, based on structural analysis of the interacting components, design new strategies to prevent and treat infections.",Regents & Distinguished Professor and Director,Center for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nfd8d37d6
Adela,Oliva Chavez,Assistant Professor,"My lab focuses on the molecular host-pathogen and vector-pathogen interactions. Vector-borne pathogens have evolved in close relationship with their vectors and hosts for thousands of years. Thus, they have acquired mechanisms to manipulate the cellular machinery of both, the vector and the mammalian host. I am interested in how vector-borne pathogens influence host and vector cellular responses, such as immune responses, cellular trafficking, and vesicle secretion.
We are also interested in how tick-borne pathogens sense environmental changes when moving between the vector and the mammalian host. Members of the Anaplasmataceae change their protein profile during their development within the mammalian host when compared to the vector. We want to use these bacteria as a model to understand what clues intracellular bacteria use to detect changes in environment. This knowledge could lead to development of interventions to disrupt the life cycle of tick-borne pathogens, and prevent disease in humans and animals.",Assistant Professor,Entomology,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nfead5f34
David,Stelly,Professor,"My scientific research, graduate and post-graduate programs employs multi-disciplinary approaches to conduct and study use of naturally occurring germplasm for crop improvement. Elements of the research include wild-species germplasm introgression, chromosome substitution, reproductive and ploidy manipulations, conventional cytogenetics and fluorescence in situ hybridization, genetic analysis, DNA marker and assay (SNP) development, marker assisted selection, reproductive cytology and genetics, and various types of genome mapping, sequencing, and their integration for genome sequencing and assembly. Most of my research aims to enhance the germplasm, knowledge, science and technologies for genetic improvement Upland cotton, e.g., economic yield and sustainability; some, however, is devoted to sorghum and peanut, especially wide hybridization and germplasm utilization.",Professor||Chair,Soil and Crop Sciences||Molecular and Environmental Plant Sciences,https://scholars.library.tamu.edu/vivo/display/nfec36db0