Cell Biology

Cell biology research encompasses a broad range of studies that overlap in some cases with the other disciplines of the program. For example, the work of Dr. Ricardo Feldman is modeling inherited diseases by reprogramming patient-derived somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells. Dr. Kalvakolanu studies signal transduction (JAK/STAT and non-STAT) and gene regulatory pathways regulated by the Interferons. This lab also studies mechanisms of action of tumor suppressors, transcriptional control, and their roles in apoptosis (programmed cell death) and autophagy.  Also part of this group, Dr. Bill Jackson studies authophagy and its role in viral pathogenesis. Dr. Robb studies stress regulation in live bacterial vaccines and protein folding systems. Dr. Vasta studies innate immune recognition and effector mechanisms that are mediated by protein-carbohydrate interactions.