My lab is interested in understanding how organelles adapt their morphology and spatial distribution to changing cellular conditions and how proteins and protein complexes that are associated with membranes regulate the structure and function of the organelles in cells. Currently, our research interests are largely directed towards exploring the molecular mechanism of mitochondrial membrane-associated protein networks and characterize their cellular and physiological roles in regulating mitochondrial structure and function. My lab utilizes a multi-disciplinary approach that integrates structure determination by electron cryo-microscopy (cryo-EM) with biochemistry, biophysics, and cell biology techniques to derive unique insights into the complexity of mitochondrial reticulum. Our long-term goal is to elucidate the molecular mechanism of regulated mitochondrial morphology for developing a molecular understanding of mitochondrial function in human cells.
keywords
Neurobiology, Neurodegeneration, Cell Biology, Membrane Biology, Cell Signaling, Proteins and Enzymology, Molecular Biophysics, Structural Biology, Electron Cryo-Microscopy
BCHM 4720 - Metabolic Pathways and Human Disease
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2023
Covers energy metabolism and anabolic/catabolic pathways; metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids, and nucleic acids; photosynthesis; special topics on human diseases with pathologies and metabolic pathways. Formerly CHEM 4720. Same as BCHM 5720.
BCHM 5770 - Fundamentals of Biochemistry I
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2022
Introduction to conducting research in Biochemistry, including covering foundational topics in Biochemistry that include concepts such as protein structure and function, experimental approaches to study biochemical processes, and analysis and interpretation of data. Topics will be taught through the perspective of the scientific literature with an emphasis on critical analysis of research. Additional subject areas will include discussions of aspects of conducting biochemical research in academic and industrial settings. Intended for entering Biochemistry graduate students. Formerly CHEM 5770.
BCHM 5771 - Advanced General Biochemistry 1
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2021 / Fall 2022
Lect. In-depth analysis of DNA structure and replication, RNA synthesis and processing, protein synthesis, enzyme function and mechanism, protein structure, protein dynamics, and physical chemistry of macromolecules. Intended as a comprehensive treatment of areas central to modern biochemistry for entering graduate students. Formerly CHEM 5771.
BCHM 5776 - Scientific Ethics and Responsible Conduct in Research
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2021 / Fall 2022
Lect. Advanced discussion of topics in scientific ethics, including requirements for responsible conduct of research, case histories of fraud, research misconduct, ethical misconduct and development of professional values and ethical standards. Same as MCDB 5776.
BCHM 6901 - Research in Biochemistry
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2022 / Spring 2023 / Fall 2023 / Spring 2024
May be repeated up to 15 total credit hours.
BCHM 6951 - Master's Thesis
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2024
Students are not admitted for the master's degree but may be transferred to the MS plan if they are unable to meet the demands of the PhD program.
