Cellular & Molecular Physiology Web Site
The Cellular and Molecular Physiology (CMP) Program assesses and integrates molecular and cellular mechanisms driving tissue- and organ-specific function. Our studies of normal physiology offer novel insights, providing key opportunities for dissecting pathways governing human disease processes. Our faculty apply cellular and molecular biology, molecular genetics, bioengineering and genomics-based research to the central issues in human development and disease. We employ C. elegans and mouse models of development and disease and our labs are developing novel gene- and cell-based therapeutics that might someday be capable of prolonging life as well as correcting inborn errors of metabolism, chronic wound healing, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.
One major theme seeks to unveil the molecular signaling networks controlling cell growth and motility. These studies have implications for understanding the genetic basis of cancer, the mechanisms regulating wound healing, the molecular control of physiologic and pathologic angiogenesis, and the pathogenesis of pulmonary disease. A second major theme emphasizes the molecular and cellular dissection of those protein- and lipid-based trafficking pathways that likely to regulate breast cancer progression, liver disease, and neurodegenerative disorders. A third major theme is investigation of signaling within and among neurons and glia. These studies relate to spinal cord injury, motor disease, brain cancer, obesity, and neurodegenerative diseases associated with aging.
Because our programmatic emphasis aims at uncovering human disease mechanisms we are strongly committed to educating outstanding scientists and physician-scientists who will seek careers in academia- and biotechnology-based biomedical research.
Students interested in the CMP Program complete their first year as members of the Integrated Studies Program.