Assistant Professor in the Institute on Aging, Department of Health Policy and Epidemiology; Joint appointment in the Department of Psychology
Phone: (352) 265-0680, ext. 86542; E-mail: mdiehl@ufl.edu
My work is in two main areas of aging research. First, my work focuses on how personality contributes to successful aging and psychological well-being in old age. In this area, I have conducted studies on adults' coping strategies, their self-concept, and on the connections between personality traits and the pursuit of personal goals in everyday life. Recently, I have also started to focus on adults' cognitive representations of their illness as a factor in adaptation to chronic illness. Second, I conduct work in the area of applied cognitive research. Specifically, I am interested in the cognitive abilities that influence older adults' medication taking behavior and their adherence or non-adherence to their medication regimen. In addition, I am interested in how older adults' beliefs in their own efficacy can be used in training programs to alter their fear of falling.
Associate Director for Research, Institute on Aging; Associate Professor, Health Policy and Epidemiology
Phone: 352-265-0680 ext. 86548; E-mail: marsiske@ufl.edu
The specific project we're looking for colleagues for concerns the assessment of neuropsychological functioning, and day-to-day consistency of performance, in older adults with and without dementia. We're interested in whether "inconsistency" (daily variability) of cognition might be an independent diagnostic of impaired cognitive functioning. More broadly, from my website: older adults' everyday problem solving abilities, their relationship to basic cognitive and intellectual performance and to functional competence, and the role of social partners in cognitive collaboration the range of modifiability (plasticity) in adults' intellectual functioning, and antecedents (especially sensorimotor) of individual differences in adult cognitive and intellectual functioning.
Assistant Professor in the Institute on Aging, Department of Health Policy and Epidemiology Affiliate Department of Sociology
Phone: 265-0680 x86504; E-mail: pienta@ufl.edu
I am a sociologist and a demographer who studies aging. My two main lines of research are (1) social and demographic aspects of retirement and work disability and (2) social and demographic aspects of health and well-being. I primary conduct my research by analyzing nationally representative survey data. I have additional expertise issues related to: women and aging, African American Aging, and Aging in Nepal.
Assistant Professor, Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology and Shands Cancer Center
Phone: 392-3329; E-mail: ishov@ufl.edu
Research interests: Nuclear Structure and Function; Epigenetic Regulation of Gene Expression; Tumor Suppression Function of Protein Daxx
Assistant Professor, Department of Anatomy an Cell Biology
Phone: 294-7976; E-mail: dliao@anatomy.med.ufl.edu
Deregulation of cellular pathways in transformation and cancer, focusing on how viral oncogenes perturb cellular regulatory circuitry; Molecular genetics of tandemly repeated genes. Students are expected to learn to use cutting-edge techniques in molecular cell biology and genetics for the research project.
Research Assistant Professor, Department of Anatomy an Cell Biology
Basic Science Building, Room B1-15
Phone: 392-3329; Lab: 392-7375; E-mail silviat@ufl.edu
The research in my laboratory is focused on understanding the relationship between DNA damage processing and human disease. We are particularly interested in dissecting the mechanistic aspects that determine how DNA lesions located in transcribed genomic regions are processed by the transcription machinery to initiate the excision repair pathway called transcription-coupled repair (TCR). TCR removes transcription arresting damage from the transcribed strands of expressed genes by recognizing the conformational changes in the DNA induced by the damage. We have focused our efforts towards answering the following questions: 1) What are the features that determine whether a lesion will block transcription? How does a polymerase arrested at a natural arrest site differ from a polymerase arrested at a DNA lesion? What are the factors involved in the initial steps of TCR? Does the polymerase fall off the template or can it continue transcribing after repair has occurred? We are currently exploring whether non-B DNA structures, which have been recently found to correspond to hot spots of genetic instability in human tumors, are also targeted by excision repair processes, thus representing a novel form of DNA damage, and whether excision processes are promoting this genetic instability as a result of faulty processing of this unusual form of DNA damage.
Assistant Professor of Anesthesiology, Surgery and Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology
Phone: (352) 265-0463; Fax: (352) 265-1062
My research group is focused on translational and clinical research in pathogenesis and epidemiology of sepsis with special emphasis on the study of endothelium in sepsis and new bedside imaging of microcircualtion and role of endothelial progenitor cells in sepsis. We also have several ongoing clinical epidemiological studies with large database mining looking for the characteristics and outcomes of acute kidney injury among postoperative patients.
Professor, Dept. of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Phone: (352) 392-3366; E-mail: callen@biochem.med.ufl.edu
We have cloned an E. coli gene that renders the bacterium resistant to the antibiotic, bacitracin. The gene sequence has been established and tentatively characterized as an enzyme involved in bacterial cell wall synthesis. The student will optimize conditions for expression of the encoded protein and further characterize its biochemical function with the long-term goal of understanding the molecular basis of its function.
Scientist, Dept. of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Phone: (352) 392-9665; E-mail: denslow@biotech.ufl.edu
I am interested in understanding the molecular mechanisms by which environmental contaminants act as endocrine disruptors and affect biological systems. We use fish as a model for our studies because they are present in the rivers and lakes that are polluted by these compounds. The project would include protein analyses and western blots, isolation of mRNA, northern blotting with appropriate probes and the determination of the extent of induction of specific genes.
Professor, Dept. of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Phone: (352) 392-3362; E-mail: bdunn@college.med.ufl.edu
My laboratory studies the structure and function of a variety of proteolytic enzymes, with an objective of contributing to the development of drugs targeted against pathogenic organisms. We use site-specific mutagenesis, protein expression/purification, and kinetic methods to study human, parasite, and viral enzymes.
Asst. Professor, Dept. of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Phone: (352) 392-4535; E-mail: art@ascaris.health.ufl.edu
My laboratory focuses on the structure-function relationships of small, biologically active neuropeptides. Our primary tools are high-resolution NMR spectroscopy, molecular biology, protein expression, and computer modeling. We work on a large family of neuropeptides called FMRFamide-like peptides (FLPs). Many animals have large numbers of FLPs, all of which have very similar amino acid sequences. Many of these similar FLPs produce dramatically different physiological responses. A major goal in my lab is to understand the role of structure in FLP signaling diversity. We have several exciting projects on FLPs including conformational studies of FLPs in solution, structural studies of FLP precursor proteins, structures of FLPs bound to a receptor, and identification of new FLP receptors.
Assoc. Professor, Dept. of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Phone: (352) 392-3207; E-mail: sfrost@ufl.edu
My research laboratory is interested in nutrient control of glucose transport activity in an adipocytes model system. We are currently testing the hypothesis that glucose deprivation induces the synthesis of a novel protein that interacts with the membrane protein responsible for glucose transport to enhance uptake of glucose into cells. This project is funded by the NIH through 2003.
Professor & Assoc. Chair, Dept. of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Phone: (352) 392-6870; E-mail: plaipis@ufl.edu
Current research includes studies on the catalytic mechanism of carbonic anhydrase, the mechanism of DNA replication and integration of adeno-associated virus, and the use of AAV vectors in gene therapy. See: www.med.ufl.edu/biochem/plaipis/plaipis.html
Associate Professor, Dept. of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Phone: (352) 392-3375; E-mail: thmareci@ufl.edu
Our research group is examining the structure and biochemistry of living systems using nuclear magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy. Currently we are mapping the fiber structure of the brain and spinal cord, to relate structure to function in order to understand pathologies like epilepsy and traumatic injury, and we are examining the status of blood-brain-barrier in pathological situations.
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Phone: 392-1810; Email: keithr@ufl.edu
The focus of the laboratory is on understanding how epigenetic modifications of the genome, such as DNA methylation and core histone post-translational modifications, regulate normal cellular processes (development & differentiation) and how dysregulation of these modifications leads to human diseases like cancer. Specifically, we use many molecular biology techniques (PCR, RT-PCR, cell culture, recombinant DNA, and expression microarrays) to identify important growth regulatory genes that undergo aberrant DNA methylation-mediated silencing in cancer and, if the gene function is not known, we undertake a variety of assays to better understand its role in cancer formation and/or progression.
Assoc. Professor, Dept. of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Phone: (352) 392-6472; E-mail: tpyang@ufl.edu
My laboratory is interested in the general area of eukaryotic gene regulation, and specifically in mechanisms of transcriptional regulation of mammalian genes. We study the transcriptional regulation of genes in two genetic systems of differential gene expression, X chromosome inactivation and genomic imprinting.
Asst. Professor, Dept. of Medicine
Phone: (352) 392-4059; E-mail: bubb@medicine.ufl.edu
My laboratory uses cell biological and biophysical techniques to study actin polymerization. We also study pharmacologic agents that target the regulation of actin polymerization. These agents have a broad range of applications, including modulation of apoptosis, angiogenesis, immunology, neurodevelopment and cancer biology.
Assistant Professor of Medicine, Hematology/Oncology
Phone: 352-846-1749/392-7346; E-mail: reddyvs@medicine.ufl.edu
Dr. Reddy's research interests are in the field of cancer and immunology relating to bone marrow and blood stem cell transplantation. The focus is on immune reconstitution of patients undergoing transplantation for cancers such as leukemia. We are studying specialized immune cells called dendritic cells and are evaluating these cells in new treatments such as cancer vaccines. In addition, the research studies the effects of blood growth factors and proteiens called cytokines on the immune system and cancer. The research is both laboratory and patient based clinical research and should provide the appropriate student with knowledge of translational research in medicine.
Assistant Professor Division of Nephrology, Hypertension and Transplantation
Phone: (352) 273-5805 E-mail: Yuri.Sautin@medicine.ufl.edu
Our group is involved in basic research in the field of the metabolic syndrome, obesity and kidney disease. We are particularly interested in the mechanisms of signal transduction involving several lipid and protein kinase cascades and NADPH oxidase, which are responsible for oxidative stress, inflammation and prediabetic phenotype in adipocytes, hepatocytes and renal epithelial cells in cell culture and animal models of the metabolic syndrome and obesity. We use a variety of techniques, such as immunofluorescence, live cell imaging by confocal microscopy, RNA interference, recombinant viruses, immunoprecipitation, real-time PCR and immunoblotting to characterize gene expression, etc.
Asst. Professor, Dept. of Medicine
Phone: 352-392-4008; E-mail: segalms@medicine.ufl.edu
Our interest lies in understanding the role that endothelial cell apoptosis and angiogenesis plays in the progression of renal disease. The decision of the cell to undergo apoptosis is the result of integration of the pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic signals; thus each cell may have a distinct set point for what is required to induce apoptosis. The compelling aspect is that only 40% of patients with diabetes will go on to develop diabetic nephropathy. In addition, only a fraction of patients with hypertension will progress to end-stage renal disease and require renal replacement therapy. Our hypothesis is that an individual,s tendency for endothelial apoptosis may be a critical factor in whether that individual will develop renal disease. We are using techniques in the field of cellular biology, biochemistry and molecular biology to study the apoptotic process in endothelial cells.
Professor of Medicine, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Director, General Clinical Research Center
Phone: (352) 265-8909 or 392-2321; E-mail: stacpool@gcrc.ufl.edu
We conduct both patient and laboratory research in the pathophysiologies and treatment of genetic mitochondrial diseases, due to mutations in the nuclear and mitochondrial genomes. The research is multi-disciplinary and includes new drug development, mass spectrometry, magnetic resonance spectroscopy, creation of animal models of disease by gene knockout or knockdown and preclinical testing of gene therapy strategies. Cultured human cells, animals and patients constitute the experimental material or subjects. All patient research is conducted in the National Institutes of Health-funded General Clinical Research Center at Shands Hospital.
Professor of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology
Phone: (352) 273-5346; E-mail: staudr@ufl.edu
The Center for Musculoskeletal Pain Research is dedicated to the investigation of mechanisms responsible for chronic pain syndromes, like low back pain, neck pain, headaches, and fibromyalgia. All research is done in human participants and involves the application of psychophysical stimuli (heat, cold, pressure, and electrical current) to the tissues of chronic pain patients or healthy controls. One specific area of interest are spinal cord and brain mechanisms of chronic pain. We use functional magnetic imaging techniques (fMRI) to study pain related brain activations.
Department of Medicine
Email: wingocs@ufl.edu
Studies in the Wingo lab focus on the molecular physiology of H,K-ATPase's of the kidney and the ion channels and signal transduction proteins that regulate this class of pumps. These pumps are important in potassium conservation (potassium reabsorption) during potassium depletion and have been hypothesized to play a role in certain forms of hypertension. We are also interested in the distribution and function of these pumps in other tissues and the role of hormones which affect blood pressure such as angiotensin II, bradykinin, and dopamine in the regulation of these transporters.
We utilize a variety of techniques including physiological studies in knockout animals, patch clamp analysis of intact and cultured collecting duct cells, heterologous expression studies of ion channels and ATPase subunits with analysis of their activities, and immunohistochemical studies at the light and EM level. Expertise within the laboratory includes, protein chemistry and molecular biology, patch clamp analysis and confocal microscopy, and microperfusion, intracellular pH and intracellular calcium measurements.
Professor, Dept. of Medicine
Phone: (352) 392-2991; E-mail: zucalijr@medicine.ufl.edu
We are interested in studying the insertion of chemoresistant genes using lenti viral gene transfer into normal hematopoietic stem cells to increase resistance to elevated chemotherapy in bone marrow transplantation. We are also interested in creating mixed chimeras to determine whether graft versus host disease can be prevented while preserving graft versus tumor effects in an allogeneic bone marrow transplant setting.
Professor, Dept. of Molecular Genetics & Microbiology
Phone: (352) 392-0680; E-mail: hvbaker@ufl.edu
My research is aimed at understanding the nature of the combinatorial interactions that occur between transcription factors to regulate gene expression. We use a variety of molecular techniques to study how proteins are recruited to their regulatory sequences on the DNA. We are also using a genomic approach to define regulatory networks that exist within the cell.
Assistant Professor, Department of Molecular Genetics
Phone: 392-8520; E-mail: dbloom@mgm.ufl.edu
My lab's overall goal is to understand how Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1) is able to go latent in nerve cells, and how stress causes it to reactivate and cause recurrent disease. My current research is focused in three major areas: 1) Characterizing viral genetic elements that regulate latency and reactivation, 2) Identifying molecular determinants of HSV latent gene expression and silencing of lytic genes, 3) Exploiting HSV's unique biology and developing improved versions of HSV vectors for expressing biologically relevant peptides in neurons of the peripheral and central nervous systems.
Asst. Professor, Dept. of Molecular Genetics & Microbiology
Phone: (352) 846-1531; E-mail: byrne@college.med.ufl.edu
My laboratory is actively involved in developing new genetic therapies for cardiovascular disease. In the area of cardiomyopathy, we are studying gene replacement in an autosomal recessive form of fatal cardiomyopathy in children. Additional projects are focused on transplant rejection and heart failure as well as hemophelia. In these projects we use AAV vectors to achieve sustained correction of the gene deficiency and correction of the phenotype in mouse models of disease.
Assoc. Professor, Dept. of Molecular Genetics & Microbiology
Phone: (352) 392-3315; E-mail: lchang@mgm.ufl.edu
Analysis of lentiviral transgene functions, modification of dendritic cell immunity, HIV gene therapy and immunogene therapy using mouse and cat cancer models.
Professor, Dept. of Molecular Genetics & Microbiology
Phone: (352) 392-3128; E-mail: condit@college.med.ufl.edu
The Condit laboratory uses genetic, biochemical, biological, and molecular biological assays to isolate and study poxvirus mutants which are defective in the elongation phase of viral mRNA synthesis. The studies are designed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of transcription elongation.
Assoc. Professor, Dept. of Molecular Genetics & Microbiology
Phone: (352) 392-0050; E-mail: gulig@college.med.ufl.edu
My research involves examining the virulence of Vibrio vulnificus, a bacterium that causes lethal infection in people with liver disease who eat raw oysters. We are using a mouse model of infection to determine if contaminating Vibrio strains have the potential to cause human disease and to understand the difference between virulent and avirulent strains. We are also interested in elucidating how these bacteria can replicate so rapidly within infected host tissues as part of the disease process.
Professor, Dept. of Molecular Genetics & Microbiology
Phone: (352) 392-0676; E-mail: lewin@ufl.edu
Dr. Lewin studies RNA enzymes or ribozymes. He is primarily interested in mechanisms of RNA catalysis and in using ribozymes for gene therapy of inherited diseases. One project studies the pathways of protein-stimulated RNA folding. Another uses ribozymes directed against a mutant form of rhodopsin messenger RNA to fight the blinding disease retinitis pigmentosa. A third project uses ribozymes to discover the function of newly sequenced genes.
Professor, Dept. of Molecular Genetics & Microbiology
Phone: (352) 392-7077; E-mail: moyer@mgm.ufl.edu
My research focuses on the rabbit poxvirus infection of mice and rabbits. The laboratory is currently studying the specific genes required not for viral growth per se but rather those genes designed specifically to control aspects of the host response to infection. Such host responses include inflammation, chemotaxis of immune cells and/or apoptosis. Mutations in most such genes attenuate the virus in animals, profoundly influence the ultimate outcome of the disease, and effect host range of the virus, plaque phenotype in cell culture and opocko color produced upon infection of embryonated eggs.
Assistant Professor, Nephrology
Phone: (352) 846-2692; E-mail womerkl@medicine.ufl.edu
Dr. Womer's research interests focus on dendritic cell (DC) function in the context of transplant immunology. Current projects include 1) in vivo and ex vivo DC manipulation with adeno- and adeno-associated virus containing the gene for IL-10 for tolerance induction in animal models of transplantation and autoimmunity; 2) Monitoring of precursor DC levels and function in the peripheral blood of transplant patients as a potential marker for the level of immunosuppression and predictor of graft outcomes; 3) The role of DC function in BK virus reactivation and development of nephropathy in kidney transplant patients. Dr. Womer's research is best classified as translational, with the ultimate goal of developing novel therapies in the lab that will one day have an impact on patient care in the transplant arena. Dr. Womer collaborates closely with the labs of Drs. Michael Clare-Salzler and Mark Atkinson.
Assistant Professor, UF Shands Cancer Center / Dept. of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology
Phone: (352) 392-6079; E-mail: lzhou@ufscc.ufl.edu
The overall objective of my research is to understand cell death regulation at the genomic level with a focus on irradiation (chemotherapeutic agents) induced cell death. Cell death is a gene-controlled process which decides whether a cell should live or die. Defects in cell death regulation can leads to tumor formation and metastasis because tumor cells escape safeguarding mechanisms that eliminate malignant cells through cell death. Correspondingly, cell death is also the underlying cellular process which serves the basis of chemo- and radio-therapy. These procedures aim at inducing cell death responses in tumor cells by applying death-inducing chemicals or irradiation, respectively. The gene network that regulates cell death is rather complex. It demands a comprehensive view of the status of many genes (hundreds, if not thousands) and their interrelationships to understand what went wrong in the tumor cells and what will be an ideal means to kill those cells. To map the complexity of cell death regulation, we are taking multi-disciplinary approaches including: DNA array based genome wide expression analysis; Database construction and array data analysis through computer programming; Genetic analysis of cell death regulatory genes in Drosophila and Cell culture based gene function assays.
Associate Professor, Division of Neonatology, Pediatrics Department
Phone: (352) 392-4195; E-mail: koenijm@peds.ufl.edu
Neutrophils serve as one of the first lines of defense against infection. However, in neonates, especially when delivered prematurely, neutrophil production and function are deficient. These deficiencies contribute to the increased risk for developing infections in the neonatal population. In addition, not only are neonatal neutrophils functionally impaired, they also have abnormally prolonged survival, a condition which could potentially lead to the initiation of chronic inflammatory processes, such as in the lung. Furthermore, certain abnormal biologic conditions, such as preeclampsia during pregnancy, can further impair neutrophil production and function.
Our main research goal is to determine the key regulatory factors involved in neutrophil production and function in the developing fetus and neonate. Improved knowledge of neutrophil biology in the developing human has important implications to the development of therapeutic modalities for these fragile patients.
Division of Neonatology, Pediatrics Department
Phone: (352) 392-4195; E-mail: weissmd@peds.ufl.edu
Currently our laboratory focuses on the role of amino acid transporters in the pathophysiology of Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE). HIE occurs with an incidence of 1 in 1000 births. We hope, that by gaining a better understanding of how amino acid transporters modulate the transport of glutamine and glutamate, to develop treatments for this neurologically devastating disease.
Distinguished Professor and Program Director, Department of Neurology
Phone: (352) 392-3491; E-mail: heilman@neurology.ufl.edu
The Behavioral Neurology/Neuropsychology Program at the Center for Neuropsychological Studies, College of Medicine performs research that attempts to understand the brain mechanisms that account for cognitive processes and what happens to these functions in diseases such as stroke, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy and other diseases of the brain. We also attempt to learn how this disorder can best be treated and rehabilitated. The domains in which we perform research include: attention, speech and language, memory, emotions, executive functions, creativity and many others. Studies methods include behavioral assessments, imaging, and EEG-evoke potentials.
Department of Neurology, McKnight Brain Institute
Phone: (352) 273-5550; E-mail: kimford.meador@neurology.ufl.edu
Active areas of research include cerebral lateralization, dementia, epilepsy, mechanisms of attention and memory, neglect syndrome, neurodevelopmental effects of antiepileptic drugs, and the pharmacology and physiology of cognition.
Asst. Professor, Dept. of Neuroscience
Phone: (352) 294-0028; E-mail: howland@neocortex.health.ufl.edu
Anatomical and behavioral correlates of recovery following spinal cord injury. This includes that analysis of spontaneous recovery and recovery mediated by cellular replacement strategies, as well as physical training regimens, in experimental rat and cat models. Techniques being used include: cellular transplantation, in vivo and ex vivo gene delivery, immunohistochemistry, tract tracing and video based behavioral analysis.
Research Associate Professor, Department of Neuroscience, and VAMC
Phone: (352) 376-1611x6499; E-mail: making@nersp.nerdc.ufl.edu
Our lab uses anatomical, electrophysiological, and biochemical/molecular techniques to study progressive neurodegenerative disease. The neuropathological effects of prolonged alcohol consumption are studied to figure out mechanisms by which damage results in impaired learning and memory. Gene transfer techniques are being used to develop better animal models for human neurodegenerative diseases, and potential therapeutic approaches to such diseases.
Professor, Dept. of Neuroscience
Phone: (352) 392-3033; E-mail: hnick@biochem.med.ufl.edu
Our laboratory studies the molecular mechanisms that control the regulation of gene expression during the inflammatory response. We study the regulation of a subset of genes regulated by pro-inflammatory cytokines that play a cytotoxic or cytoprotective role in the inflammatory response in the brain, lung and kidney.
Associate Professor, Dept. of Neuroscience
Phone: (352) 392-3598; E-mail: rowland@mbi.ufl.edu
The research in my laboratory is focused on two problems. The first is development and analyses of gene replacement strategies for treatment of inherited retinal disease using viral vector technology. The second is understanding the phototransduction cascade through which light signals entrain the circadian clocks located in the neural retina. Our experiments are carried out using molecular, biochemical, histological, embryological and cell culture techniques.
Professor, Dept. of Neuroscience
Phone: (352) 392-3910; E-mail: streit@mbi.ufl.edu
Research concerns functions of microglial cells in the regenerating and degenerating central nervous system. Understanding microglial biology is important for developing strategies to repair the injured CNS, and also for understanding primary neurodegenerative disease, such as Alzheimer's disease.
Professor, Dept. of Neuroscience
Phone: (352) 392-6555; E-mail: vierck@mbi.ufl.edu
We conduct human psychophysical studies of pain sensitivity in patients with different forms of chronic pain. These studies involve testing a variety of sensory capacities in the patients and age-matched controls. A student would assist with the sensory testing and would also assist in data management.
Professor, Dept. of Obstetrics & Gynecology
Phone: (352) 392-4060; E-mail: schultzg@obgyn.med.ufl.edu
Patients with diabetes or arterial insufficiency frequently develop chronic skin wounds in their lower extremities due to ischemia which occurs as a consequence of vascular problems associated with their disease. In this project, the student will participate in experiments using gene therapy to stimulate angiogenesis in ischemic wounds in an animal model. The student will grow isolate plasmids containing vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF), assist in surgery creating ischemic skin wounds in rats, measure expression of VEGF in wound biopsies, assess neovascularization, and measure rates of wound closure. The student should have basic understanding of biochemistry and molecular biology techniques and be willing to work with laboratory animals.
Assistant Professor and Richardson II Chair
Phone: (352) 392-2842; E-mail: skaushal@ufl.edu
Exciting advances in molecular medicine have suggested that many human disorders are protein conformational diseases, in which defects in the folding of a specific protein lead to cell death. To explore this idea, our laboratory studies misfolded proteins associated with inherited eye disease, particularly retinitis pigmentosa (RP). Many families with RP have mutations in rhodopsin, a protein in the eye that binds vitamin A and detects light. Our current experiments are focused on understanding the cellular response to misfolded rhodopsin, including the role of molecular chaperones and folding enzymes, and the pathways of misfolded protein degradation. We are also investigating approaches to reduce the accumulation of the misfolded protein by adding compounds that stabilize it or by stimulating degradation pathways that target misfolded molecules. We hope that these efforts will improve our understanding of protein conformational diseases as well as provide new therapeutic approaches to RP.
Research Asst. Professor, Dept. of Pathology & Immunology
Phone: (352) 392-0397; E-mail: semiromi@pathology.ufl.edu
I am interested in molecular pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes by using an animal model of human type 1 diabetes namely NOD mouse. Currently, I am investigating impact of a kinase inhibitor on generating regulatory T-cells and wanted to shown de-novo generated regulatory T-cells are capable to prevent/delay onset of diabetes in NOD mouse. In the course of this study a variety of different techniques such as flow cytometry, beads-based assays using Luminex technology, gene cloning and many other techniques will be used.
Director of Toxicology and Professor, Department of Pathology, Immunology & Laboratory Medicine, Department of Psychiatry
Phone: (352) 265-0680 x72001; E-mail: bruce-goldberger@ufl.edu
Dr. Goldberger's laboratory supports Medical Examiner Offices in seven districts throughout the State of Florida with an approximate yearly caseload of 3000. Dr. Goldberger's laboratory also provides analytical services for governmental, academic, and private organizations. Dr. Goldberger's research includes: ( 1) the study of the role of illicit and prescription drugs (especially cocaine and opioids) in the death of individuals investigated by medical examiners; (2) the study of the dietary influences of caffeine; and (3) the identification and measurement of alcohol and drugs in breath.
Asst. Professor of Pathology
Phone: (352) 376-1611 x4522; E-mail: iczkoka@pathology.ufl.edu
We are working on the importance of cell adhesion molecules, particularly CD44, with regard to the biological potential of prostate cancer cells. We have abundant evidence for the differential expression of isoforms of these molecules in cancer versus benign tissue. In addition, altered expression of cell adhesion molecules seems to correlate with the aggressiveness of the tumor. An undergraduate could learn the theory and gain experience with techniques including Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization, Real-Time (TaqMan) RT-PCR, laser capture microdissection, and enzyme-linked serum immunoassay.
Professor, Dept. of Pathology, Immunology & Lab Medicine
Phone: (352) 392-3574; E-mail: khan@ufl.edu
Investigating the role of renal epithelial injury in modulation of crystallization in the kidneys. Molecular biological, biochemical and microscopic techniques are used to investigate the production of various urinary proteins by renal epithelial cells in culture as well as in animal models in response to various stimuli.
Assistant Professor of Pathology, Department of Pathology, Immunology and Lab Medicine
Phone: 392-2886; E-mail: Liu@pathology.ufl.edu
My lab is interested in the pathogenesis of hepatitis C virus infection, particularly the role of cellular factors in viral replication. We are also interested in oncogenic cell transformation.
Asst. Professor Dept. of Pathology
Phone: 392-6261: E-mail petersen@pathology.ufl.edu
Currently my lab focuses on liver growth, development and regeneration under normal and carcinogenic conditions. We are currently studying the molecular signals involved in the regenerative process. A more focused aspect of our research deals with the hepatic oval "stem" cell and their involvement in the hepatic architecture as it pertains to the regenerative process.
Associate Professor, Dept. of Pathology
Phone: 352-392-2696; E-mail: terada@pathology.ufl.edu
Stem cells may provide a virtually unlimited donor source for transplantation and tissue generation. In addition to such clinical significance, the current progress of stem cell research is shaking some of our preconceptions and dogmas on mammalian cell & developmental biology. Cell lineage may not be so definitive anymore, and cell differentiation may not be unidirectional as once believed. Currently my laboratory focuses on stem cell research to understand hidden rules underlying plasticity of mammalian cells.
Research Assistant Professor, Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine
Phone: 846-0585, Fax: 352-392-5393
E-mail: xia@pathology.ufl.edu
My research field is immunology, especially focusing on autoimmune type 1 diabetes. We are developing a program using tolerogenic dendritic cells or other approaches to prevent type 1diabetes by restoring self immune tolerance.
Asst. Professor Dept. of Pathology
Phone: 392-0005; E-mail yanglj@pathology.ufl.edu
On-going research in my laboratory focuses on major areas of adult stem cell plasticity for a cure/management of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Over the past several years, we have made great progress by discovering ways to transdifferentiate adult stem cells (bone marrow, liver stem cells, and splenocytes) into functional insulin-producing pancreatic islet-like cells extrinsically by manipulating culture microenvironments and intrinsically by over-expressing those transcription factor(s) playing critical roles in pancreatic beta-cell development. In addition, we are pursuing two additional research projects: (1) Explore molecular mechanism of ATRA-induced cell differentiation in acute promyelocytic leukemia; and (2) Generate tumor-antigen-specific cytotoxic T-cells for the treatment of multiple myeloma.
Professor, Dept. of Pediatrics
E-mail: willa.drummond@hsc.utah.edu
My research will be in areas relating to developing effective clinical computer systems and in using data derived from computerized systems to study the physiology of ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) and the neonatal cardiopulmonary diseases that cause need for ECMO (mainly pulmonary hypertension, failure and septic shock).
Professor and Chief, Department of Pediatrics
Phone: 392-6410; E-mail: novakda@peds.ufl.edu
Our laboratory is interested in the pathophysiology of normal fetal development, particularly as related to fetal nutrition. Our primary focus is upon placental function and the passage of nutrients across the placenta from mother to fetus. We utilize a variety of models (in vivo animal models, isolated cells, human placenta) and techniques in our efforts. The eventual goal of our research is to understand the mechanisms and regulation of nutrient transfer from mother to fetus, thus allowing the development of effective therapies for common disorders such as intrauterine growth retardation, which currently adversely impact the health of infants worldwide.
Assistant Professor, Pediatric Endocrinology
Phone: 392-2907; E-mail: stalvms@peds.ufl.edu
I specialize in endocrine disorders associated with cystic fibrosis (CF). My major research efforts are in the basic science arena and have two working animal models for endocrine disorders in CF, specifically cystic fibrosis related diabetes and cystic fibrosis related bone disease. However, I also do clinical research into the field as well. My clinical research focus currently is on promoting anabolic mechanisms in CF related wasting, and second, the immunologic impact of diabetes in CF patients.
Assistant Professor, Department of Pediatrics
Phone: 386-462-4105; E-mail: kwarring@ufl.edu
Our laboratory is primarily focused on the development of adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors for the gene therapy of pediatric brain tumors such as medulloblastoma, ependymoma, and atypical teratoid/rhabdoid types. Research involving basic AAV virology and the genetic manipulation of the AAV capsid proteins to develop more infectious and/or receptor-targeted vectors also is underway.
Instructor, Dept. of Pharmacology and Therapeutics
Phone: (352) 392-8558; E-mail: bsf@college.med.ufl.edu
My laboratory is interested in the use of retroviral libraries (cDNA or peptide) to identify molecules which modulate biological processes. Currently I am interested in applying this technology too identify genes from primary malignant tissues that have anti-apoptotic or transforming activities. Additonal interests include non-viral methods of stable gene delivery utilizing transposons.
Professor, Dept. of Pharmacology & Therapeutics
Phone: (352) 392-0669; E-mail: kem@college.med.ufl.edu
My lab investigates naturally occurring toxins that act upon nerve and other excitable cells. We sue these toxins as chemical probes to investigate receptors and ion channels of biomedical interest. Currently there are two major projects. One involves the design of nicotinic receptors in the brain and may be useful in therapy of AlzheimerÌs and other neurodegenerative diseases. The second project utilizes a sea anemone peptide as a molecular model for developing new immunosuppressant drugs for treating organ transplants and autoimmune disorders. Students electing to do research in the laboratory would gain experience in chromatography and electrophoresis of proteins and their biological characterization.
Assoc. Professor, Dept. of Pharmacology & Therapeutics
Phone: (352) 392-3541; E-mail: tomrowe@college.med.ufl.edu
Our lab is interested in the cellular function of nuclear and organellar DNA topoisomerases and their role as targets for cancer and malarial chemotherapy. DNA topoisomerases are an ubiquitous class on enzymes which regulate the structure and function of cellular chromosomes and are established targets for antimicrobial and anticancer drugs. We are using molecular, biochemical, and genetic approaches to investigate how these drugs interfere with the regulation and functions of topoismoerases in tumor cells and the human malarial parasite Plasmodium falciparum.
Professor, Dept. of Pharmacology & Therapeutics
Phone: (352) 392-3545; E-mail: kshiveri@pharmacology.ufl.edu
My laboratory is investigating molecular and cellular mechanisms by which environmental chemicals (i.e., dioxin, PCBs cigarette smoke) alter gene expression in human placental, uterine and prostate cell lines. The major mechanisms appear to involve endocrine disruption and activation of pro-inflammatory processes which may underlie infertility, uterine endometriosis and prostate disease.
Assoc. Prof, Dept of Pharmacol and Therapeutics
Phone: 376-1611 x 6575; E-mail: ntumer@ufl.edu
A fundamental question in the field of aging centers on whether aging systems respond and adapt to physiological and pathological challenges as well as younger systems. The focus of our research is to investigate the loss of plasticity in catecholamine biosynthesis at the molecular level and signal transduction pathways with age in response to stress and pharmacological interventions in the adrenal medulla and in the brain.
Assistant Professor, Dept. of Physiology & Functional Genomics
Phone: (352) 392-3243; E-mail: hbose@phys.med.ufl.edu
My laboratory is focused on the folding and translocation of mitochondrial proteins that regulate steroid hormone synthesis.
Among the proteins imported into mitochondria are enzymes that convert cholesterol into steroid hormones. The steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) facilitates the movement of cholesterol from the outer to inner mitochondrial membrane. Human StAR mutations cause a lethal disorder of steroidogenesis. StAR's action is confined to the outer mitochondrial membrane (OMM). My laboratory's goal is to characterize StAR's entry into mitochondria: to understand StAR's docking with the OMM, to determine whether it enters the mitochondria through a non-classic import mechanism, to identify proteins involved in that mechanism and to characterize how StAR enters. In addition we seek to understand how StAR binds to, imports, and discharges cholesterol, and how the process of StAR-mediated cholesterol import is related to StAR's protein import.
Professor, Dept. of Physiology & Functional Genomics
Phone: (352) 392-9299; E-mail: mraizada@phys.med.ufl.edu
Regulation of angiotensin receptor-mediated neuromodulatory actions in the brains of normal and hypertensive rats. This involves studies in various signal transduction pathways and participation of signaling kinases.
Use of antisense gene therapy for a permanent control of hypertension.
Professor, Dept. of Physiology, and Program Director
Phone: (352) 392-4485; E-mail: csumners@phys.med.ufl.edu
Our research focus is in two major areas. 1) Understanding the intracellular signaling mechanisms by which angiotensin II alters the activity of brain neurons, and how these mechanisms may be impaired in hypertension. 2) Studying the role of the angiotensin type 2 receptor (AT2) in neural and cardiovascular function.
Professor, Dept. of Physiology & Functional Genomics
Phone: (352) 392-4488; E-mail: cwood@phys.med.ufl.edu
The research performed in this laboratory is focused on the mechanisms controlling the responses to stress in the fetus in utero and on the mechanisms controlling the timing of birth.
Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry
Phone: (352) 294-0421; E-mail: awbruijn@psychiatry.ufl.edu
Role of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) in the depressive-like signs associated with drug withdrawal We use the rat intracranial self-stimulation procedure to investigate the effects of CRF in nicotine withdrawal. This entails the implantation electrodes in the medial forebrain bundle of rats and the daily assessment of brain reward thresholds. Withdrawal from drug of abuse increases the brain reward threshold (i.e. depressive like state) and we try to reverse this by using CRF antagonists and other novel pharmacological treatments for mood disorders. The student will become experience with the following techniques: Surgical techniques: Implantation of electrodes and cannulae in the brain; implantation and removal and subcutaneous minipumps that contain drugs of abuse. Injection procedures: Subcutaneous, intraperitoneal and intracranial administration of drugs. In addition the student will gain extensive knowledge about animal care, how to conduct scientific experiment and drug dependence research. This projected will be conducted in close collaboration with Dr. Gold, for more information see http://www.psychiatry.ufl.edu/people/bios/gold.htm
Distinguished Professor & Chief McKnight Brain Institute, Division of Addiction Medicine
Phone 392-0140; E-mail: msgold@psych.med.ufl.edu
Please look at the following URLs for our current research projects:
http://www.psychiatry.ufl.edu/people/bios/gold.htm
http://www.psychiatry.ufl.edu/research/Addiction/addictpubindex.htm
Assistant Professor, Departments of Psychiatry and Molecular Genetics and Microbiology
Phone: (352) 294-0412; E-mail: jahobbs@psychiatry.ufl.edu
Our laboratory focuses on the role of viruses in brain pathology including mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and autism. We are particularly interested in parvoviruses and rhabdoviruses. Another major focus is the role of gender in virus infection, autoimmunity, and mental illness.
Associate Professor, Dept. of Psychiatry
E-mail: mjohnson@psychiatry.ufl.edu
I work in the area of racial disparities in mental health care. I am working with focus groups of African American women with panic disorder. A student could work with a multidisciplinary team on the development of mental health care interventions for ethnic minority populations.
Assistant Professor, Dept. of Psychiatry
Phone: (352) 392-6698; E-mail: lmerlo@ufl.edu
Our research focuses on public health issues in relation to addiction disorders (broadly-defined). This includes studies examining psychosocial and environmental factors that influence substance use and abuse, factors influencing addiction treatment outcome, methods to improve medical education regarding addiction disorders (particularly tobacco), and examination and evaluation of non-chemical “addictions” (e.g., food addiction, sex addiction, technology addiction, etc.).
Assistant Professor Director of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Research Departments of Psychiatry and Pediatrics
Phone: (352) 392-3611; E-mail: estorch@ufl.edu; OCD Line: (352) 392-3613 Fax: (352) 392-3614 Web: www.ufocd.org
My research focuses on the treatment of children and adults with obsessive-compulsive disorder, as well as other Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders (e.g., Trichotillomania, Tourette’s Disorder). Current research projects include examining treatment outcome and development, modes of assessment, and family factors in OCD. In addition to this line of study, we are also examining behavioral treatments for chronic non-adherence in youth with diabetes.
Professor, Dept. of Radiation Oncology
Phone: (352) 395-0287; E-mail: siemadw@ufl.edu
Research in our laboratories is focused on improving conventional anticancer therapies such as radiation and chemotherapy. Our current focus is on the use of drugs which damage the tumor vasculature which cripples the blood supply to the tumor and leads to the death of the tumor cells.
Assistant Professor, Department of Surgery (Pediatric Surgery)
Phone 392-3718; E-mail beierea@surgery.ufl.edu
We are looking at cellular survival pathways in neuroblastoma, a pediatric tumor. We do cell culture, basic molecular biology, and some animal experiments.
Research Assistant Professor, Department of Surgery
Phone: (352) 392-7461; E-mail: golubvi@surgery.ufl.edu
We are interested in getting undergrads to our Lab. I am doing research of focal adhesion kinase signalling in cancer cell lines. Focal adhesion
kinease is involved in motility, adhesion and survival. Recently the promoter regulatory region of focal adhesion kinase has been cloned and it is important to know its regulation regulation.
Research Assistant Professor Division of TCV Surgery Department of Surgery
Phone: 352-273-7592; Fax: 352-273-5593; E-mail: chobson@ufl.edu
We are studying acute kidney injury in the cardiac and thoracic patient using an isolated perfused animal kidney model. We are interested in the mechanisms of kidney protection and repair, and hope to apply the knowledge gained towards lessening the incidence and severity of acute kidney injury in our patients. We also have an active clinical research program, employing both retrospective and prospective study designs, and looking at a variety of questions in patients who are treated in our division.
Assistant Professor of Surgery, University of Florida College of Medicine
Phone: (352)376-1611, extension 6470; E-mail: Ozaki@surgery.ufl.edu
The Ozaki Vascular Biology Laboratory has ongoing projects in the following areas:
Inflammatory mechanisms of neointimal hyperplasia
Murine models of vascular disease
Leukocyte rheology and vascular disease
Genetic approaches (gene therapy, transgenic models) to understanding and treating bypass graft failure
Mechanisms of arteriogenesis
Techniques currently emphasized include in vivo models (rabbit, mouse), microsurgery, gene therapy, histology and immunohistochemistry.
Assistant Research Scientist, Dept. of Surgery
Phone: (352)392-2382; E-mail: lrice@ufl.edu
Our research program goals are to determine the effects of various antiproliferative agents on prostate cancer cells and to identify target genes or metabolic pathways that may be useful in drug design or diagnostic tools in cells and patient tissue. We are interested in the mechanisms of cancer progression and metastasis and in chemoprevention. Assays currently used in the lab include traditional molecular and cell biology protocols, laser capture microscopy, electron microscopy, animal xenograft studies and microarray analyses. We have an interdisciplinary program with collaborators are based in various departments and colleges, including IFAS, Statistics, Radiology, Pathology, Pharmacology, Molecular Genetics and Surgery.
Clinical Assistant Professor of Surgery, Division of Acute Care Surgery Burn, Hand Surgery Specialist
Phone: (352) 273-5670; E-mail: winston.richards@surgery.ufl.edu
Projects Available: 1. Literature review to evaluate the cost of burn care associated with disaster events and a second project which is a review of our own burn experience here at the University of Florida Burn Center. 2. Analyzing the data in our database and identifying trends in burn injury and in burn care.
Co-Director of Robotic Surgery Director of Male Infertility and Microsurgery Assistant Professor Department of Urology
Phone: (352)-273-6815; Fax: (352)-392-8846; www.urology.ufl.edu; www.uroengineering.com
Clinical based research with an emphasis on the application and development of robotic surgery for the treatment of urological conditions such as prostate cancer, renal cancer and male infertility. Research projects ranging from hands on animal lab experiments, mathematical outcomes modeling and robotic/ minimally invasive technique development. No prior research experience needed – would provide training for participants with varying experience levels.
Updated: 1/22/08 wtm