The Center for Molecular Medicine is comprised of laboratories studying basic mechanisms of human disease. Basic laboratory research addresses cellular and molecular signaling mechanisms, and develops new models to understand medical problems. Our discoveries are used to consider new diagnostic or therapeutic opportunities related to our mission of patient care.
Cardiovascular Biology
Potential therapeutic effects of augmented neuregulin-1 signaling
One of our early research centers was developed to address the causes and basic cellular mechanisms and physiology related to multiple types of cardiovascular disease. Research studies range from understanding the development of the heart and blood vessel system during embryogenesis, stem cells that give rise to cells of the cardiovascular system, angiogenesis in response to tumors or wound healing, and diseases of the heart and blood vessels, such as heart failure, myocardial ischemia, and vascular obstructive diseases.
Cancer Biology & Therapeutics
Imaging and quantification of tumor angiogenesis using microCT
Cancer covers a broad spectrum of disease that can affect virtually all tissues in the body. Our researchers address multiple aspects of cancer diagnosis and tumor progression, including angiogenesis, and the effects of the tumor stroma. In addition, we have an active tissue bank representing thousands of tumor specimens from a variety of cancers that are available for research us.
Epigenetics & Metabolic and Hormonal Regulation
Diet-induced changes in bone marrow adiposity
Metabolic syndrome is a major health problem, due to many factors, including the prevalence of obesity. Our research addresses the genetic basis of obesity and diabetes, and overall regulators of metabolic health. In addition to adipose tissue, the skeleton, hormonal systems, and liver are organs that actively regulate metabolism and body homeostasis. Our research spans these systems to understand the pathogenesis of diseases including obesity, osteoporosis, hormone imbalance, and diabetes.