Molecular Biology Section
Toren Finkel, MD, PhD, Principal Investigator
The current focus of the laboratory is to try to understand the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) as intracellular signaling molecules. Oxygen radicals have been implicated in a number of conditions ranging from aging to atherosclerosis. Relatively little is known regarding how ROS like superoxide and hydrogen peroxide are regulated in cells and what specific aspects of cellular activity might be influenced by physiological and pathophysiological levels of these molecules. We are attempting to use a molecular biological approach to address these issues. It is our hope that we can gain a broader and more complete understanding of how cellular ROS are regulated. In addition, we are attempting to identify the direct molecular targets of cellular oxidants. Finally, we are hopeful that this molecular understanding will lead to new insights into disease states in which oxidant stress plays a role and help in the design of new therapeutic agents.
Other Investigators:
Michael N Sack
Investigator in translational heart failure research
The current focus of the laboratory is to understand the regulatory control of mitochondrial function in the development of and in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases such as heart failure and ischemic heart disease. Current data suggest that mitochondria may play a central role in the augmenting cell survival programs in the heart. We are exploring the molecular regulatory control of mitochondrial function to enhance our understanding of the genomic control of mitochondrial function in response to numerous disease states (cardiac ischemia, diabetic associated cardiomyopathy). The long term goal will be to identify regulatory targets that could be exploited to enhance mitochondrial function in patients with heart failure and ischemic heart disease. In addition, the laboratory has an ongoing translational focus where evaluate novel mitochondrial modulatory therapies in the management of heart failure.
Selected Publications
Dr. Paul M Hwang
Investigator in cardiovascular genetic research
We are focusing on discovering some of the genetic determinants
of atherosclerosis that may lead to new diagnostic markers, therapeutic
targets and insights into pathogenesis. Our research involves using
unbiased global genetic screens such as Serial Analysis of Gene
Expression (SAGE) on patient samples and various model systems.
Leading candidate genes are examined using molecular techniques
in experimental models that include transgenic mice and somatic
cell gene knockouts. In addition, we have previously shown that
the p53 tumor suppressor gene can potently generate reactive oxidants
in the mitochondria. We are now investigating novel mechanisms of
mitochondrial regulation by the nucleus that may be important for
energy and oxidant generation with direct consequences on cardiovascular
function.
Selected Publications
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