My current major area of work is to understand the molecular mechanisms that control eukaryotic mRNAs in the cytoplasm with a specifc focus on the control of translation, mRNA localization and stability. We employ a variety of experimental models including bakers yeast, mammalian cells in culture, Drosophila and mice. Current work focuses on trying to understand how RNP granules, such as P-bodies and stress granules assemble, their roles in regulating mRNA function in cells, and how perturbations of these assemblies can cause human disease. This work also includes studies of related mRNP granules in neurons and regenerating muscle, both in normal conditions and during pathologies.
BCHM 4761 - Biochemistry Laboratory
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2018
Two 4-hour periods per week. Introduction to modern biochemical techniques. Topics include enzymology, spectrophotometry, electrophoresis, multi-step protein purification, recombinant DNA techniques and molecular cloning. Formerly CHEM 4761.
CHEM 1041 - Biotechnology and Society
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2019
Covers recent advances in biotechnology and how those impact society. Content and discussion will focus on both the science behind technological advances, their impact on society, and the ethical issues raised by new technologies. Topics change each semester but can include: GMO crops, genome editing, drug discovery and development, stem cell therapies, development and use of new cancer treatments, human genome sequencing and its impact on diagnosis and treatments, human microbiome, neurodegenerative diseases. Formerly CHEM 1041.
CHEM 6901 - Research in Chemistry
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2018 / Summer 2018 / Fall 2018 / Spring 2019 / Summer 2019 / Spring 2020
May be repeated up to 15 total credit hours.
