Research Interests:

The focus of research in my laboratory is understanding mechanisms of action of growth hormone (GH), an important metabolic and growth promoting hormone. In particular, I am interested in various aspects of GH receptor (GHR) structure and signal transduction. Our studies have examined the interaction of the GHR with a critical non-receptor cytoplasmic tyrosine kinase, JAK2, which is required for initiation of GHR signaling. We have explored the downstream signaling pathways (STAT, MAP kinase, and PI-3 kinase) activated by GH and their effects on GH-induced gene expression.

Our current interests surround several aspects of the actions of GH and prolactin. Specifically, we are intensely investigating: 1) molecular studies of mechanisms of GH-induced activation of the JAK2 tyrosine kinase; 2) the cellular determinants of sensitivity to GH and modulation of GHR availability and function; 3) inducible GHR metalloproteolysis as a mechanism of generation of the GH binding protein (GHBP) and as a regulator of in vivo hepatic GH sensitivity; 4) mechanisms of GH action in bone and muscle; 5) crosstalk between the GH and epidermal growth factor (EGF) signaling pathways, between the GH and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) signaling pathways, and between the PRL and EGF signaling pathways.

 

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