Maintaining DNA Replication Fork Stability:  Role of the Fanconi Anemia Pathway (2007 - Present)

Investigator:  Niall Howlett, University of Rhode Island
Mentor:  Ralph Scully, Harvard University

Abstract:  Fanconi anemia (FA) is a rare recessive disorder characterized by congenital anomalies, bone marrow failure, and pronounced cancer susceptibility; including squamous cell carcinoma of the head, neck and anogenital regions (HNSCC). More

Modulation of D2-Like Dopamine Receptor-Mediated Striatal Signaling Pathways by RGS9-2 (2007 - Present)

Investigator:  Abraham Kovoor, University of Rhode Island
Mentor:  Ronald Stanton Duman, Yale University 

Abstract:  This proposal will investigate the cellular functions of the striatally enriched RGS protein, RGS9-2, a member of the RGS family of Gα GTPase accelerating proteins. More

Role Partitioning by Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptors (AHR) in Cell Regulation and Toxicity (2006 - Present)

Investigator:  Rebeka Merson, Rhode Island College
Mentor:  Cyrus Vaziri, Boston University School of Medicine 

Abstract:  The overall objective is to uncover the mechanisms underlying gene dysregulation and cell toxicity by environmental contaminants. More

Reservatrol Induction of Gene Expression via Activation of CAR and Nrf2 (2006 - Present)

Investigator:  Angela Slitt, University of Rhode Island
Mentor:  Bingfang Yan, University of Rhode Island 

Abstract:  Recently, red wine consumption in the United States has increased because the popular media and medical community have touted its antioxidant properties and potential to fight disease such as atherosclerosis and cancer.  More

Constitutive Androstane Receptor (CAR) Activation and Intracellular Transport (2006 - Present)

Investigator:  Matthew Stoner, University of Rhode Island
Mentor:  Karen Lounsbury, University of Vermont 

Abstract:  The constitutive androstane receptor (CAR) is unique among nuclear receptors because it is expressed almost exclusively in hepatocytes, remains in an active conformation in the cytoplasm and is activated by many chemicals with which it does not directly interact.  More

Characterization of Pyrethroids on Sperm Voltage-Sensitive Calcium Channels (2005 - Present)

Investigator:  Steven Symington, Salve Regina University
Mentor:  Kim Boekelheide, Brown University 

Abstract:  The immediate aim of this project is to determine the effect of pyrethroid insecticides on calcium homeostasis in mouse caudal epididymal sperm and the effect of these compounds on viability. More

Undergraduate Student Training Projects

E. Hystolica EhADH2 Enzyme as Anti-Amoebic Target (2007 - Present)

Investigator:  Avelina Espinosa, Roger Williams University

Abstract:  The intestinal protozoan Entamoeba histolytica is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, causing fifty million cases of diarrhea and one hundred thousand deaths per year. More

Molecular and Biochemical Characterization of a Secreted Lipase in Leishmania (2007 - Present)

Investigator:  Alison Shakarian, Salve Regina University 

Abstract:  This subproject is designed to contribute to the understanding of mechanisms of Leishmania survival, growth and development. More

Cell Signaling Leading to UV-Induced Cell Injury (2005 - Present)

Investigator:  Yinsheng Wan, Providence College 

Abstract:  Long-term exposure to UV radiation causes wrinkles. The water content and water-holding capacity of the skin often decrease after exposure to UV, leading to deleterious effects such as wrinkles and delayed wound healing. More