Biochemistry | Research Interests

Name	Email	PhD Program
Ramos, Silvia WEBSITE EMAIL PUBLICATIONS	PHD PROGRAM Biochemistry & Biophysics RESEARCH INTEREST Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, Molecular Biology, Pathology, Translational Medicine	Our research is focused on RNA-binding proteins and their physiopathological roles. An understudied aspect of human disease is gene regulation by modulation of mRNA function. In our research lab we investigate functional connections between the RNA-binding protein Zinc Finger Protein 36 Like-2 (ZFP36L2 or L2) and human diseases. L2 is a member of the Tris-Tetra-Proline or Zinc Finger Protein 36 (TTP/ZFP36) family of RNA-binding proteins that bind Adenine-uridine-Rich Elements (AREs) in the 3’ untranslated regions of target mRNAs. Upon binding, L2 accelerates mRNA target degradation and/or inhibits mRNA translation, ultimately decreasing the protein encoded by the L2-target mRNA. We have three particular goals: Determine new specific L2-mRNA targets involved in human diseases. Determine the mechanism(s) by which L2 modulates these novel RNA targets. Determine the physiological consequences of L2 ablation in specific cells types using mouse models and CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout system.
Capener, Jacob EMAIL	PHD PROGRAM RESEARCH INTEREST Biochemistry, Biophysics, Pharmacology
Chen, Jingting EMAIL	PHD PROGRAM RESEARCH INTEREST Biochemistry, Cancer Biology, Immunology, Pharmacology
Flores, JP EMAIL	PHD PROGRAM RESEARCH INTEREST Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, Epigenetics, Genetics
Neary, Alex EMAIL	PHD PROGRAM RESEARCH INTEREST Biochemistry, Biophysics, Cell Biology
So, Christina EMAIL	PHD PROGRAM RESEARCH INTEREST Biochemistry, Biophysics, Cell Biology
Hvasta, Matt EMAIL	PHD PROGRAM RESEARCH INTEREST Biochemistry, Biophysics, Computational Biology
Baldwin, Katie WEBSITE EMAIL PUBLICATIONS	PHD PROGRAM Cell Biology & Physiology, Neuroscience RESEARCH INTEREST Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Developmental Biology, Molecular Biology, Neurobiology	Building a functioning brain requires an elaborate network of interactions between neurons and glia. We use mouse genetics, primary cell culture, quantitative proteomics, molecular biology, and super resolution microscopy to study glial cells during brain development. We are particularly interested in how astrocytes acquire their complex morphology and communicate with neighboring astrocytes, neurons, and oligodendrocytes. Furthermore, we are investigating how glial dysfunction drives the pathogenesis of brain disorders such as autism, schizophrenia, and leukodystrophy.
Li, Zibo WEBSITE EMAIL PUBLICATIONS	PHD PROGRAM Biochemistry & Biophysics, Chemistry RESEARCH INTEREST Biochemistry, Drug Delivery, Drug Discovery, Molecular Medicine, Nanomedicine	My research has focused on developing new radio-chemistry, imaging probes, and therapeutic approaches including nanomedicine for various diseases. Most importantly, we have the culture of forming an active collaboration with people in different field. With a cGMP lab located within our facility, we are also experienced on developing lead agents and translate it to clinic.
Aleman, Maria WEBSITE EMAIL PUBLICATIONS	PHD PROGRAM Pharmacology RESEARCH INTEREST Biochemistry, Cardiovascular Biology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology	The broad goal of our research is to understand basic mechanisms regulating erythropoiesis (red blood cell differentiation and maturation). Our current work focuses on a family of dual functional proteins (poly C binding proteins) which both regulate RNA processing and chaperone iron within cells. Using biochemical, cellular, and in vivo models we explore the cross talk between iron trafficking and RNA regulation mediated by poly C binding proteins and how these activities are modulated by disease.

Research Interest: Biochemistry