Office phone: (859)323-5462
Fax: (859)257-8994
Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics
Marion Steiner, Ph.D. |
Associate Professor |
Doctoral studies: University of Kentucky. Postdoctoral: Baylor College of Medicine. |
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Office phone: (859)323-5462 |
Selected publications |
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| Research statement: The lipid biomediator, lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), induces significant cellular responses, which are relevant to normal neuronal development, acute brain injury and degenerative brain disorders. Responses of interest include the LPAinduced death of neurons, via apoptosis, and the stimulation of proliferation of astrocytes. Intracellular signals induced by LPA include the production of free radicals and alterations in mitochondrial function. The focus of the studies in this laboratory is on understanding the roles of LPA and related lipid biomediators in both normal and pathological processes in the brain. Thus, the experimentation is designed to elucidate: 1) the intracellular signals induced by LPA, which are critical for the biological responses to this lipid; 2) the stimuli and cell types which result in the production of LPA, as well as the relevant biosynthetic enzymes; 3) additional functions of LPA, including microglial responses to LPA; and 4) the in vivo roles of LPA in stroke, brain trauma and neurodegenerative diseases. The combined studies should result in a comprehensive portrait of the functions of LPA in normal and pathological processes in the brain. Moreover, these studies should identify potential therapeutic targets for modification of LPAmediated effects in acute and chronic brain injury. | |
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