Summary
My primary interests are in the signaling pathways regulating cellular responses to external signals, with a research focus on the regulation of myosin phosphatase activity in smooth muscles by upstream Ser/Thr protein kinases. The primary focus of my research currently is to better understand how stomach emptying is regulated by a secreted protein called Mfge8. Regulating the rate of stomach emptying is critical for optimal nutrient absorption in the small intestine. Mfge8 acts as a brake on stomach muscle contractions by inhibiting Rho kinase, causing increased myosin phosphatase activity, increased dephosphorylation of myosin, and decreased myosin binding to actin myofilaments, resulting in decreased force of gastric muscle contractions to reduce the rate of stomach emptying.
Education
- B.S., Biology, Syracuse University
- Ph.D., Boston University
- Post-Doctoral, Vollum Institute