All Personnel (alphabetical)
Complete Directory of all MPB Personnel
Administrative Team
Other administrative needs are delivered by personnel in POD 3 with special responsibility for MPB. Click on their names to access a picture.
POD3 Director: Connie Huebschmann
HR – Donna Ingram
Grant Admin – post-award: Bess Cahill, Becky Bowden, Barbara Hill
Grant Admin – pre-award: Beth Rivas, Alicia Davis
Travel – Kathy Davis
IT – Tim Dugger
Graduate Student, Cone laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
My research project is focused on advancing our understanding of the molecular and kinetic mechanisms of energy maintenance by elucidating if and when MC4R induced Kir7.1 signaling is required for regulation of food intake and energy expenditure. We believe MC4R functions as a rheostat of energy maintenance by utilizing both tissue specific Gαs and Kir7.1 signaling modalities as well as unique kinetic aspects of these modalities. I am using an in vivo modeling system to test this hypothesis.
: 8435 MRB IV
- : erica.j.pruett@Vanderbilt.Edu
- : (615) 936-8144
Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Research in the Ayala lab focuses on gut-brain interactions that regulate energy balance. Specifically, we are interested in identifying regions in the central nervous system and molecular mechanisms within those regions that mediate the effects of the gut hormone Glucagon-like peptide-1 (Glp1) and related Glp1 receptor (Glp1r) agonists on feeding behavior. Our lab combines transgenic mouse models, targeted pharmacological interventions and state-of-the-art metabolic phenotyping capabilities to address research questions. We aim to extend the technical expertise in the lab to leverage the existing imaging, circuit mapping, electrophysiology and behavioral phenotyping capabilities at Vanderbilt. Other projects in the lab focus on leveraging biochemical and pharmacological properties of the Glp1r towards the design of more effective therapeutics for obesity and diabetes
: 742 Robinson Research Building
- : julio.e.ayala@vanderbilt.edu
Alumna Graduate Student, Terunaga Nakagawa lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
AMPA receptors (AMPARs) are ligand-gated cation channels whose appropriate activity and regulation are integral to most central nervous system function. They mediate the majority of excitatory neurotransmission and their dysregulation has been implicated in many cognitive disorders. My research focuses on the molecular details of auxiliary subunit interactions with the AMPAR. Using biochemical and structural biology techniques, we hope to illuminate the molecular basis of interaction between these two proteins and how that relates to the auxiliary subunit’s modulation of AMPAR in vivo.
: 766 RRB (MRB I)
Assistant to the Chair, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 738 RRB
2215 Garland Ave- : ashlee.l.bartley@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 936-7087
Professor Emeritus, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Structure, dynamics, and interactions of membrane proteins
: 727A Light Hall
- : Al.Beth@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 322-4235
Assistant Professor, Pediatrics
Pediatric Endocrinology
: 11136 Doctors' Office Tower
- : nathan.bingham@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 322-7427
Graduate Student, O'Brien lab, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
I work in Richard O’Brien’s laboratory and I study glucocorticoid regulation of G6pc2 expression in islet β cells.
: 8415 MRB IV
- : kayla.boortz@Vanderbilt.Edu
- : (615) 936-1629
Graduate Student, O'Brien laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
Elevated fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels have been associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D) development and cardiovascular-associated mortality (CAM). Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified SNPs in G6PC2 associated with FBG. G6PC2 is an isoform of the glucose-6-phosphatase catalytic subunit expressed in pancreatic islet beta cells. Deletion of G6pc2 in mice results in reduced FBG, consistent with the human GWAS data, and islets from these mice have enhanced glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) at sub-maximal glucose concentrations. I am using mouse models to explore the function of G6pc2 in islet beta cells and its potential as a therapeutic target for the prevention of T2D and CAM.
Associate Professor, Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences
Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Pharmacogenomics and metabolomics of retinal diseases
: 11425 MRBIV
- : milam.brantley@Vanderbilt.Edu
- : (615) 875-7650
Assistant Professor, Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine
The Brown lab explores the role of the epigenome and transcription in pathologic gene regulation that drives cardiometabolic disease.
: 352 Preston Research Building
Division of Cardiovascular Medicine
Nashville, - 37232- : jonathan.d.brown@vumc.org
- : (615) 936-1556
Graduate Student, Hong laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
Titin, the largest known protein, is indispensable for the structural integrity and function of the cardiac sarcomere. Yet, how such a massive ~3 mDa structural protein is maintained within the highly ordered sarcomere complex, while under continuously alternating tension, is unknown. My thesis focuses on elucidating the mechanisms mediating sarcomere homeostasis in human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes. Using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, I generated a novel model in which I can directly visualize sarcomeric titin in order to address fundamental questions regarding titin turnover, which is critical for sarcomere homeostasis.
Graduate Student, Maureen Gannon laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
Prostaglandins are important modulators of an array of physiologic functions including insulin secretion and systemic inflammation. In the Gannon lab, I focus on the specific roles of the prostaglandin E2 receptors EP3 and EP4 and how they regulate processes involved in β-cell mass expansion. I am using pharmacological tools to examine the effects of EP3 and EP4 signaling in β-cell proliferation and β-cell survival in isolated mouse and human islets. I am also studying the effects of an EP3 antagonist and an EP4 agonist on β-cell proliferation and β-cell survival in the db/db mouse model of type 2 diabetes.
: 7425C MRB IV
- : bethany.a.carboneau@Vanderbilt.Edu
- : (615) 936-2676
Professor and Chair, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 711 Light Hall
2215 Garland Ave
Nashville, Tennessee - 37232-0615: 707F Light Hall
2215 Garland Ave
Nashville, Tennessee - 37232-0615- : nancy.carrasco@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-343-3694
Senior Associate Dean for Biomedical Research, Education and Training , Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Professor , Medical Education and Administration
Professor
: 340 Light Hall
- : roger.g.chalkley@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 343-7251
Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
Genetic basis of susceptibility to type 2 diabetes.
: 735B Light Hall
- : wenbiao.chen@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 936-7390
Research Instructor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 511 Light Hall
- : rui.chen.1@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 925-5009
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Jacquelyn A. Turner and Dr. Dorothy J. Turner Chair in Diabetes Research, Medicine
Diabetes, glycogenolysis, gluconeogenesis, physiology
: 704A/710 Robinson Research Building
- : alan.cherrington@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 322-7013
Research Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 741 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232- : derek.p.claxton@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-322-3319
Adjoint Assistant Professor, School of Public Health, Samford University
The pathogenesis of nutrition-related chronic diseases
: CHS Building 1 1611
800 Lakeshore Drive
Birmingham, AL - 35229- : kcoate@samford.edu
- : (205) 726-4430
Research Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Membrane Protein Structure and Function, Antioxidant Vitamins, ESR Spectroscopy, Fluorescence Spectroscopy,Membrane,Protein Structure,Spectroscopy
: 735A Light Hall
- : charles.cobb@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 322-0016
Professor, Vice Chair, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Role of Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) in normal synaptic signaling and in neuropsychiatric disorders.
: 724A Robinson Research Bldg (MRB1)
- : roger.colbran@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 936-1630
- : https://lab.vanderbilt.edu/colbran-lab/
Graduate Student, Kenworthy Lab, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
In the Kenworthy lab, my project focuses on understanding the role of Cav-1 mutants in the pathogenesis of pulmonary arterial hypertension.
: 718 Light Hall
- : courtney.a.copeland@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 322-6615
Professor Emeritus, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Mechanisms of cyclic GMP mediation of hormone action
: 711A Light Hall
- : jackie.corbin@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 322-4384
Professor Emeritus, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Mechanisms of cyclic GMP mediation of hormone action
https://medschool.mc.vanderbilt.edu/facultydata/php_files/part_dept/show_part.php?id3=751
: 738 Robinson Research Building
2200 Pierce Avenue
Nashville, - 37232- : jackie.corbin@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-322-4384
Graduate Student, Assistant, Associate, Full and Emeritus Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, 1971-Present
Dr. Corbin, together with Dr. Sharon Francis, devoted his research career to determining the biochemical mechanisms whereby cyclic nucleotides mediate the effects of hormones, neurotransmitters, and other agents on many biological processes. In 1976, he identified a novel protein that bound to cyclic GMP, which was later purified and characterized as being a phosphodiesterase that degrades cyclic GMP. This enzyme, now known as PDE5, is the site of action of drugs used to treat erectile dysfunction. Dr. Corbin was a HHMI investigator for 17 years.
Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
My primary research interest is how genetic variation impacts common, complex human phenotypes.
: 515 B Light Hall
- : dana.c.crawford@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 343-7852
Research Fellow, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
Research Interest: the role of transcription factors in beta cell development and function, specifically MafA and MafB
: 723 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232- : holly.a.cyphert@vanderbilt.edu
- : 304-222-1932
Research Fellow, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
: 831 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232- : travis.j.cyphert@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-343-7415
Graduate Student, Madhur Lab
I study the role of interleukin-21(IL-21) in hypertension associated end-organ damage and dysfunction using an IL-21 global knockout mouse. I am looking at the presence and effector function of IL-21 producing cells in Angiotensin II induced experimental hypertension.
: P410 MRB IV
- : bethany.l.dale@vanderbilt.edu
Professor, Radiology and Radiological Sciences
Professor, Biomedical Engineering
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Development and application of novel imaging and spectroscopic approaches to studying muscle function.
: AA-3105 Medical Center North
- : bruce.damon@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 322-8355
Research Fellow in Hassane S. Mchaourab's lab, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
In Hassane Mchaourab's laboratory I study the multidrug transporters involved in cancer and infectious diseases.
: 741 Light Hall
2215 Garland Ave
Nashville, - 37232- : reza.dastvan@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-322-3319
Assistant Professor, Division of Genetic Medicine
Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 507 Light Hall
- : lea.k.davis@vumc.org
- : 615-936-2660
Adjoint Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
Head of Innovative Electron Microscopy, INM Leibniz-Institute of new Materials
Molecular-level imaging, electron microscopy, biophysics, cell biology, protein function, nanobiotechnology, nanotechnology
Assistant Professor, Diabetes, Endocrinology, & Metab Division
Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
I study mechanisms regulating plasticity of alpha cells in the pancreatic islet.
: 8445 MRB IV
- : danielle.dean@Vanderbilt.Edu
- : 615-936-1672
Professor, Anesthesiology
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Molecular physiology of cation-chloride cotransport mechanisms in the nervous system.
: 1265 MRB IV
- : eric.delpire@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 343-7409
Centennial Professor, Mathematics
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Partial Differential Equations of Elliptic and Parabolic Type; Degenerate and Singular Equations; Local and Global Behaviour of Solutions; Harnack-Type Estimates; Calculus of Variations; Quasi-Minima; Potential Theory; Phase Transition; Free Boundary Problems; Fluid Dynamics; Conduction-Convection; Navier Stokes Equations; Motion in Porous Media; Ill-Posed Problems; Thin Film Dynamics; Classical Mechanics.
Mathematical Biology; Signal Transduction; Biophysics of Motion of Second Messengers; Cell Cycle; Complexity in Endothelial Cell Signaling; Mathematical Homogenization and Concentrated Capacity in Visual Transduction;
: 1416 Stevenson Center
- : em.diben@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 343-5906
Research Instructor, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
Pancreatic Islet Expression and Function of Two-Pore Domain Potassium Channels
: 7415 MRB IV
2213 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232- : matthew.dickerson@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-875-7637
Assistant Professor , Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Medicine, Vanderbilt Institute for Infection, Immunology and Inflammation (VI4) and Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
Our lab is interested in the immunologic and molecular mechanisms underlying atherosclerotic and cardiometabolic disease.
: 358 Preston Research Building
- : amanda.c.doran@vumc.org
- : 615-936-1976
- : https://www.amandadoranlab.science/
Graduate Student, Wikswo laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
I am a graduate student in the Wikswo lab studying the role of amino acids in cardiac ischemia and hypoxia.
Research Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 710 Robinson Research Building
- : dale.edgerton@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 343-3193
Graduate Student, David Piston's laboratory 2014, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
Postdoctoral Fellow, Benjamin White & Hari Shroff at the NIMH and NIBIB
Graduate Student, Gannon Lab
A mother's diet and metabolic status during gestation has been shown to affect her offspring's risk of developing metabolic disease later in life. In the Gannon Lab, I study the mediators of this increased disease risk using two animal models of maternal high fat diet during pregnancy. In a collaboration with multiple labs across the country, I obtain pancreata from non-human primates exposed to high fat diet in utero. Pancreatic endocrine cell mass, structure, and function are currently being investigated. In a mouse model, I study the effects of maternal high fat diet on the epigenetic profile of pancreatic beta cells in the offspring. Together, these studies will enhance our understanding of how high fat diet during pregnancy predisposes offspring to develop metabolic disease.
Joel G. Hardman Professor , Pharmacology
Professor, Psychiatry
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Molecular neurobiology.
: 8140 MRB III
- : ron.emeson@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 936-1688
Professor Emeritus, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Instructor, Assistant, Associate and Full Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Over his five decade research career, Dr. Exton’s research greatly advanced our understanding of the biochemical mechanisms of signal transduction. His research explored how hormones, neurotransmitters and growth factors activate phospholipase enzymes in order to regulate calcium ions, G proteins, protein kinases and other factors within multiple cell types. He was a HHMI-funded investigator for 36 years and the recipient of multiple honors and awards, including the Lilly Award from the American Diabetes Association and election to the National Academy of Sciences in 2001.
Graduate Student, Peter Weil laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
Research Fellow, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
: 831 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232- : yolanda.otero@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-343-7415
Graduate Student, Ron Emeson Laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
In Ron Emeson's lab, I am characterizing the physiological impact of Kv1.1 RNA editing in mice.
: 8148 MRB III
Nashville, - 37232- : elizabeth.a.ferrick@Vanderbilt.Edu
- : (615) 936-1687
Adjunct Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Cyclic Nucleotide Signaling Pathways
: 766-B MRB I
- : sharon.h.francis@Vanderbilt.Edu
- : (615) 322-4383
Graduate Student, Assistant, Research Associate, Research Professor and Adjunct Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, 1975-Present
Dr. Francis worked as a close scientific colleague with Dr. Jackie Corbin, forming a scientific partnership that lasted for 37 years. Together they studied how cyclic nucleotides mediate the effects of hormones, neurotransmitters, and other agents on many biological processes. She is widely recognized for her studies of phosphodiesterases, and specifically for helping to purify and characterize PDE5, the enzyme that degrades cyclic GMP and is the site of action of drugs used to treat erectile dysfunction.
Adjoint Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Professor, Psychiatry
Trafficking and Biophysics of Neurotransmitter Transporters with emphasis on metabolic regulation of dopamine signaling.
Professor, Medicine
Professor, Cell and Developmental Biology
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Molecular genetics of pancreas development, organogenesis, morphogenesis, islet function, diabetes, transcription
factors
: 7425C MRB IV
- : maureen.gannon@Vanderbilt.Edu
- : (615) 936-2676
Research Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
MC4R neurons of the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus.
: 8415 MRB IV
2213 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232-0615- : masoud.gharmari-langroudi@vanderbilt.edu
Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, Clinical Pharmacology Division
Assistant Professor, Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 502 RRB
2220 Pierce Ave- : jose.a.gomez@vumc.org
- : 615-332-3332
Graduate Student, Penn laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
I research and create novel nanoparticles for molecularly targeted imaging of the eye. My project involves using gold nanorods as exogenous contrast agents in the eye that are compatible with optical coherence tomography systems. My research includes the construction of gold nanorods and their modification for stability and biocompatibility. I collaborate with researchers outside my lab to perform work related to photothermal optical coherence tomography. Additionally, my research focuses on methods of drug delivery to the eye. As this is imaging research, I use a variety of imaging modalities relevant to in vivo imaging of the eye, notably optical coherence tomography.
Director, Institute for Imaging Science
University Professor , Radiology and Radiological Sciences
Professor, Physics and Astronomy
Hertha Ramsey Cress Chair , Medicine
Professor, Biomedical Engineering
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Imaging Science, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
: AAA-3107 MCN
- : john.gore@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 322-8357
Sample Lab
I am interested in the structure of the insulin receptor.
: 711H Light Hall
- : student@nomai.edu
Graduate Student, Jacobson laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
Our lab studies the function of potassium channels in electrically excitable endocrine cells within the pancreas. We are particularly interested in the β-cell specific potassium channel, TALK-1. TALK-1 is the most abundant potassium channel in the β-cell, and a polymorphism within TALK-1 has been associated with an increased risk for Type-2 diabetes. Our lab has previously shown that TALK-1 channels regulate the β-cells ability to release insulin in response to glucose. My work focuses on characterizing this regulation so that we can better understand the function that the channel plays in diabetes.
Graduate Education Coordinator, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics and Pharmacology
: 402 Preston Research Building
- : kandi.a.granberry@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 322-1182
Professor Emeritus, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Hormonal regulation of gene expression
: 702 Light Hall
- : daryl.granner@vanderbilt.edu
Professor and Chairman, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, 1984-2008
Over his 14 years as Chair, Dr. Granner both renamed and transformed the classically-organized Department of Physiology into one that used molecular biological and biophysical strategies to define how hormones, neurotransmitters, growth factors and nutrients regulate gene expression and other signaling processes. He may be best known for his highly successful mentoring of many young scientists. His own research focused on how insulin regulates genes important for glucose metabolism, including phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK), glucokinase and hexokinase II. He also served as Director of the Vanderbilt Diabetes Research and Training Center for 16 years, and was a frequent keynote or invited speaker at international conferences.
Assistant Professor, Anesthesiology
Assistant Professor, Psychiatry
Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: P435H MRB IV
Research Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Better therapeutic approaches for Type 1 Diabetes
: 702 Light Hall
- : subhadra.gunawardana@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 322-9710
Professor, Medicine
Professor, Cancer Biology
Krick-Brooks Chair, Nephrology and Hypertension
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Molecular oxygen-sensing
: S-3223 Medical Center North
- : volker.haase@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 343-7254
MD PhD Student, Al Powers laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
Recent observations have challenged long held concepts in the pathophysiology of type 1 diabetes. By implementing an integrative approach to study both the native pancreas and isolated islets from the same human donor, I work to characterize the function and morphology of T1D pancreatic islets using in vitro and in vivo functional studies and immunohistochemistry. My primary project focuses on the glucagon-producing alpha cells in the T1D islet and identifying the mechanisms behind disordered glucagon secretion in T1D.
Instructor, Assistant, Associate and Full Professor, Physiology / Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, 1964-1975
The very significant body of work performed by Dr. Hardman has contributed tremendously to our understanding of cyclic nucleotide synthesis and degradation. In particular much of the fundamental knowledge of guanylate cyclase and cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases, which synthesize and degrade cyclic GMP, respectively, is a result of Dr. Hardman’s research. In addition to his appointment in our department, Dr. Hardman was also Professor and Chairman of the Pharmacology Department from 1975 to 1990 and Associate Vice-Chancellor for Health Affairs at Vanderbilt until his retirement in 1997.
MD PhD Student, Winder laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
Drug dependent patients trying to maintain abstinence often relapse to their chosen of drug of abuse, with many citing stress as an antecedent to use and a lack of effective treatment to control the urge to use. Guanfacine is an α2A-adrenergic receptor agonist that targets receptors for the brain stress neurotransmitter norepinephrine and has been used in both preclinical and clinical trials for addiction, often showing positive results such as reduced craving but not producing changes in ultimate rates of relapse. We hypothesize that the ineffectiveness on relapse is due to competition among the myriad effects of this drug and aim to study a non-canonical neuronal activating effect in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, an area of the brain known to be implicated in both stress and addiction disorders, through the complementary use of whole cell electrophysiology and neuroanatomical methods in the hopes that uncovering the mechanism underlying this effect will aid in future treatment of patients dependent on drugs of abuse.
: 754 PRB
- : nicholas.a.harris@Vanderbilt.Edu
- : (615) 714-9631
Director, Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine
Professor, Medicine
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Role of cycylooxygenase-2 in renal development and function; role of growth factors in recovery from acute renal injury; role of renin-angiotensin system in regulation of epithelial cell function
: C-3121 MCN
- : raymond.harris@Vanderbilt.Edu
- : (615) 343-0030
Director, Division of Clinical Pharmacology
Professor, Medicine
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Inflammation; Endothelial cell metabolism of tetrahydrobiopterin
: 536 RRB
- : david.g.harrison@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 875-3049
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
My laboratory is interested in immune-mediated mechanisms of metabolic diseases.
: 813 Light Hall
- : alyssa.hasty@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 322-5177
- : (615) 322-5972
Distinguished Professor, Medicine
Louise B. McGavock Chair,
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Inflammation, Innate Immunity, Biodefense, and Intracellular Delivery of Proteins and Peptides
: T-1218 MCN
- : jack.hawiger@Vanderbilt.Edu
- : (615) 343-8280
Graduate Student, Alyssa Hasty laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
I work in Alyssa Hasty's laboratory where we study inflammation and obesity.
Chief Diversity Officer, Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology
Vice Chancellor for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Professor
Professor
Levi Watkins, Jr. Professor in Medical Education
: D-3328 Medical Center North
- : George.Hill@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 322-0976
MD PhD Student, Hasty laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
I am studying the role of macrophages in maintaining iron homeostasis in adipose tissue. Specifically, we have identified a subset of resident macrophages that compensate for excess iron in the tissue. We are currently interested in depleting this population of macrophages in order to assess their importance in maintaining the health of adipocytes. In future studies we will address the importance of iron handling by macrophages in obesity, and the temporal distribution of iron in adipose tissue and liver tissues.
: 813 Light Hall
- : merla.j.hubler@vanderbilt.edu
Research Fellow, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics / Wasserman Lab
: 823 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232- : curtis.hughey.1@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-343-30580
Research Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Advanced electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) techniques combined with computational approaches to study protein compelexes of ankyrin.
: 735B Light Hall
- : eric.hustedt@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 322-3181
Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Secretagogue induced mechanisms regulating pancreatic islet electrical activity and hormone secretion
: 7425B MRB IV
- : david.a.jacobson@vanderbilt.edu
Head of Molecular Pharmacology and Biomarkers, Ophthalmology, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development
Development of imaging and therapeutic strategies for ophthalmology, vascular medicine, and oncology
: 68/310 Roche Innovation Center Basel
Grenzacherstrasse 124
4070 Basel, Switzerland, -- : ashwath.jayagopal@roche.com
Graduate Student and Postdoctoral Fellow, Physiology / Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, 1961-1967
Dr. Jefferson’s graduate training with Dr. Charles Park helped prepare him for his impressive career at Penn State. His research has encompassed multiple aspects of the translational control of protein synthesis in skeletal muscle and liver, including effects of substrate availability to the tissue and the mechanisms by which hormones such as insulin and glucocorticoids regulate gene expression. Dr. Jefferson has been a Professor of Physiology / Cellular and Molecular Physiology at Penn State since 1975, and Chairman of that Department since 1988. One of his many honors and activities was serving as President of the American Physiological Society in 1995-1996.
Stevenson Professor, Biological Sciences
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Cellular and Molecular Biology of Biological Clocks
: U-8211 MCN (Learned Labs)
- : carl.h.johnson@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 322-2384
Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Structural Biology of Calcium Signaling and Transport through Biological Membranes
: 735B Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232-0615- : erkan.karakas@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-343-4494
Graduate Student, Powers laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
My thesis in the Powers laboratory addresses basic questions of diabetes pathology, specifically (1) the functional consequences of chronic hyperglycemia on human pancreatic islets in vivo, and (2) the effects of ErbB growth factors on islet growth and function
Graduate Student in the Neuert Lab
The sequencing of genomes from many different organisms has shown that a large fraction of the genome is transcribed into RNA but does not code for proteins. Genome-wide studies have identified many long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), yet very little is known about their functions. The Neuert lab's previous studies have demonstrated that non-coding RNAs modulate the localization of key transcription factors, which influence the occurrence of downstream events that lead to active or silenced transcription. I will use a combination of quantitative single-molecule RNA experiments in single cells with genetic manipulations and single-molecule-based modeling to understand the molecular mechanism of transcriptional regulation of long non-coding RNAs in mammals to greater detail.
: 813 Light Hall
- : benjamin.k.kesler@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 322-4610
Assistant Professor, Clinical Pharmacology Division/Medicine, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 536 Robinson Research Building
2222 Pierce Avenue
Nashville, TN - 37232- : annet.kirabo@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-322-3304
Assistant, Associate and Full Professor, Physiology / Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, 1963-1992
Dr. Kono’s primary research focus was on the control of glucose entry into fat cells by insulin. He was among the first to report that glucose transporters can be translocated from an intracellular pool to the cell membrane in an insulin-dependent manner is fundamental to the understanding of insulin-regulated glucose transport. In addition, Dr. Kono identified and extensively characterized the insulin-sensitive cyclic AMP phosphodiesterase enzyme in fat tissue. Dr. Kono remained active in the laboratory for several years as an Emeritus Professor..
Research Instructor / Cherrington Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 710 Robinson Research Building
2200 Pierce Avenue
Nashville, - 37232- : guillaume.kraft@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-322-7002
Graduate Student, Gannon laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
I am interested in understanding the role of the transcription factor Oc1 (Onecut1) in pancreas development and disease. Oc1 is essential for development of the endocrine pancreas, so I am investigating its interaction its cofactor Pdx1 in that role. I have thus far determined that proper dosage of both Oc1 and Pdx1 is necessary for endocrine cell differentiation and that defects established during development persist into adulthood. I am further interested in identifying the direct targets of Oc1 during pancreas development since so little is known about its direct regulatory role.
: 7435 MRB IV
Associate Professor, Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences
Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Glaucoma is a major public global health problem accounting for vision loss and blindness in millions of people world-wide. Although glaucoma can be treated by lowering intraocular pressure with medications, laser treatments or surgery, most patients are unaware of decreased vision until advanced stages of the disease. Improved treatment for glaucoma patients requires better understanding of the disease mechanisms and development of early detection strategies. Our broad long term goals are to understand the disease pathophysiology and to identify genetic markers for early detection and better treatment of glaucoma.
Professor, Pediatrics
Cornelius Vanderbilt Chair,
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Reactive oxygen species generation following cytokine stimulation.
: 1065 Light Hall
- : fred.s.lamb@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-936-1301
Professor, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
The general goal of our research program is to probe the inner-workings of Nature's molecular and cellular machinery through functional measurement. Building from a molecular perspective we and collaborators employ a measure-make-model approach including single molecule biophysics methods of optical tweezers, single molecule fluorescence spectroscopy, functional mutations, and simulations.
: 308A Olin Hall
- : matt.lang@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 875-7493
Research Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Metabolic Pathophysiology Core Managing Director
: 823 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232- : louise.lantier@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-936-4028
Research Fellow in the laboratory of David Wasserman, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
In David Wasserman's laboratory, I examine how mitochondrial biology is linked to muscle glucose uptake in vivo.
: 823 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, TN - 37232- : daniel.lark@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 322-7236
Research Fellow / Piston Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Developing inverted Selective Plane Illumination Microscopy to study hormone secretion in intact pancreatic islets.
: 747 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232- : zeno.lavagnino@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-322-9710
Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Computational and statistical genomics, Bioinformatics, Cancer genomics, Complex diseases, Genetics of psychiatric disorders
: 507 C Light Hall
- : bingshan.li@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 343-2451
Research Fellow / Neuert Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Research Interest: Predicting dynamic spatial-temporal processes in signal transduction and gene regulation by quantifying individual cells with single-molecule resolution. A current cellular biology topic of interest is how cells respond dynamically to changes in their environment utilizing their cellular gene,
: 813 C Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232- : gouliang.li@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-322-4610
Research Fellow / Chen Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 711 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232- : mingyu.li@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-343-7875
MD PhD Student, Cone laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
In the Cone lab, I study the pathophysiology associated with deletion of the MC4R, the most common monogenetic obesity syndrome in man (1/5000 allele frequency). Using the mouse as a model organism, I am characterizing the cardiovascular, metabolic and energetic consequences that result from MC4R deletion. Observations from my research have furthered the need to identify and monitor patients with this distinct obesity syndrome.
More broadly, my research interests include: energy metabolism, mitochondrial physiology, cardiovascular pathophysiology, pharmicogenomics, and gene environment interactions.
: 8435 MRB IV
- : michael.j.litt@Vanderbilt.Edu
Graduate Student, Carrasco Laboratory, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Graduate Student, Harrison laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
In the past 20 years, two new mechanisms of hypertension have been defined: one is oxidative injury and the second is inflammation. Our lab has shown that dendritic cells (DCs) from hypertensive mice accumulate isolevuglandins that adduct to proteins and promote T cell activation. In hypertension, the endothelium is activated to produce reactive oxygen species and to express adhesion molecules and chemokines that attract inflammatory cells. In my project, we hypothesized that human endothelial cells exposed to mechanical stretch will promote conversion of human monocytes into activated DCs. Therefore, I study this conversion when monocytes co-cultured with human aortic endothelial cells exposed to either normal cyclical stretch (5%) or hypertensive cyclical stretch (10%) using the Flexcell® Tension System. I also study the different signaling molecules that could potentially be facilitating this process in hopes of understanding the mechanism of action.
Graduate Student, McGuinness laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
In the McGuinness lab, my long-term research objective involves elucidating the mechanisms whereby neuroendocrine function can be regulated by alterations in the inflammatory environment.
Professor and Chair, Neurology
Transcription, translation, folding, assembly, trafficking and pharmacological and electrophysiological properties of recombinant/native GABAA receptor channels and of mutant GABAA receptor channels associated with genetic epilepsy syndromes in transfected HEK293T cells and in transgenic mice.
: 6140 MRB III
- : robert.macdonald@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 936-2287
Research Instructor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Genetic models of beta cell mass regulation in insulin resistance and diabetes.
: 711 Light Hall
- : lisette.a.maddison@Vanderbilt.Edu
- : (615) 936-8283
Associate Professor, Medicine, Divisions of Clinical Pharmacology and Cardiology
Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
To investigate the role of T cells and T cell-derived cytokines in hypertension and renal/vascular dysfunction
: P415D MRB IV
- : meenakshi.s.madhur@Vanderbilt.Edu
- : (615) 875-3273
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Louise B. McGavock Chair and Professor, Medicine
Professor, Cell and Developmental Biology
Pancreatic endocrine cell differentitation and dedifferentiation, reprogramming of pancreatic acinar cells into new beta cells, genetic and epigenetic regulation of cellular plasticity
: 9475 MRB IV
- : mark.magnuson@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 322-7006
Research Instructor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 845 Light Hall
- : jose.maldonado@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-343-1436
Research Fellow / Kenworthy Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 718 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232- : pallavi.manral@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-322-6617
Graduate Student, Colbran laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
Calcium/calmodulin-dependent kinase II (CaMKII) is a highly abundant serine/threonine kinase in the brain. Direct interactions between activated CaMKII and its substrates play a number of important roles within the cell such as feedback regulation of channels/receptors, and normal synaptic plasticity. Relatively few CaMKII-associated proteins are known to preferentially interact with inactive CaMKII, and their functional roles are poorly understood. Moreover, molecular mechanisms underlying the coupling of CaMKII to the G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) that stimulate the release of intracellular calcium are poorly characterized. An interaction between inactive CaMKII and the metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (a Gq-coupled GPCR) was recently reported. I am currently investigating how CaMKII interactions with mGlu5 can change mGlu5 signaling. Understanding the physiological importance of this interaction may lead to novel treatments of neurological disorders linked to dysfunction of mGlu5 such as Parkinson’s Disease, addiction, schizophrenia, and autism spectrum disorder.
: 724 Robinson Research Building
- : christian.r.marks@Vanderbilt.Edu
Research Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Research interests include the anatomy and physiology of (1) reward systems of the brain that are activated by abused drugs such as cocaine, and (2) limbic system brain areas involved in anxiety and stress. Of specific interest is how these brain systems interact to cause relapse of drug use by people previously addicted to drugs.
: 724 Robinson Research Building
- : robert.matthews@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 343-3750
Professor, Medicine
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Dr. May's laboratory is involved in two areas involving antioxidant vitamins and micronutrients: the function of vitamin C to tighten the endothelial permeability barrier in diabetes and the role of the vitamin in preserving pericytes in diabetic retinas.
: 7435F MRB IV
- : james.may@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 936-1665
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Regulation Of Metabolic Response to Inflammation: Interaction With Nutrition
: 813C Light Hall
- : Owen.McGuinness@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 343-4473
Professor, Louis B. McGavock Chair, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Structure and dynamic basis for protein function.
: 741 Light Hall
- : hassane.mchaourab@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 322-3307
Graduate Student, Stein laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
In the Stein lab, I work on identifying co-regulators of Pdx-1 and their regulation of critical β-cell genes.
: 723 Light Hall
Graduate Student, Weil Laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
RNA Polymerase II transcriptional activation contributes importantly to the regulation of gene expression by controlling mRNA biosynthesis. A central driving force of the activation process is provided by the concerted action of a DNA-binding transfactor and at least one coactivator. I am interested in defining the transfactor-coactivator interactions required for activation. The specific goal of my current work in the Weil lab is to determine the specific domains the Rap1 transcriptional activator uses to interact with the general transcription factor TFIID to drive activation of the budding yeast S. cerevisiae ribosomal protein genes. I combine genetic, biochemical, and biophysical approaches to accomplish this goal.
: 742 RRB
- : amanda.meyer@Vanderbilt.Edu
- : (615) 322-7008
Research Fellow / Cone Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 8435 MRB IV
2213 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232- : max.michel@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-936-8144
Graduate Student, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
I work in Hassane Mchaourab's lab on the structure and function of small heat shock proteins, particularly their function in the lens.
: 741 Light Hall
- : sanjay.mishra@Vanderbilt.Edu
Research Instructor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Multi drug transporters
: 741 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232- : smriti.smriti@vanderbilt.edu
Research Fellow, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Research Interests
The impact of mitochondrial genetic variation on complex traits and disease
Methods for high-throughput classification of mitochondrial haplogroups
Mechanisms mitochondria employ to communicate with the nucleus to regulate gene expression
Bridging statistical and molecular genetics to determine functional variants that influence disease risk.
Graduate Student, Harrison laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
My research focus in the Harrison lab is on studying the role of reactive oxygen species in vascular function especially in the setting of hypertension and cardiovascular disease
Research Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
liver glucose metabolism, organ balance, tracer methods
Medical Fellow, Assistant, Associate and Full Professor, Physiology / Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, 1954-1967
During Dr. Morgan’s tenure at Vanderbilt, he investigated glucose uptake and glycogenolysis in heart muscle. In particular, his studies of the regulation of phosphorylase b activity provided insights into the control of glycogen breakdown. Dr. Morgan’s post-Vanderbilt research program at Penn State focused on the regulation of protein turnover in heart muscle. He was Chairman of the Department of Physiology at Penn State from 1973 – 1987. Among his many honors and awards, Dr. Morgan was President of the American Physiological Society (1985-86) and American Heart Association (1987-88), and was elected to the Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences in 1987.
Research Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Long-range gene regulation, genomics, developmental biology, bone and joint development
: 1175 Light Hall
- : mortlock@chgr.mc.vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 936-1671
Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Molecular and cellular biophysics of synapses
: 766 Robinson Research Building
- : terunaga.nakagawa@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 875-2531
Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Assistant Professor, Biomedical Engineering
Quantitative and predictive understanding of dynamic signal transduction and gene regulation of the coding and the non-coding genome in model organisms and human disease.
For more information, please see our lab web site.
: 723 Light Hall
- : gregor.neuert@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 343-6404
- : https://lab.vanderbilt.edu/neuert-lab/
Associate Professor, Medicine
Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism
: 7435G MRB IV
- : kevin.d.niswender@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 936-0500
Graduate Student, Madhur laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
My thesis project in Dr. Harrison's laboratory is centered on the role of T cells in hypertension.
Professor, Director of Graduate Studies, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Diabetes and the Glucose-6-Phosphatase Gene Family
: 8415 MRB IV
- : richard.obrien@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 936-1503
Research Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Characterization of endocrine progenitor cells and acinar to beta cell transdifferentiation
: 9475 MRB IV
- : anna.osipovich@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 343-7422
Research Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Genetics of autonomic regulation of the heart; Regulation of glycan metabolism in signaling; Crispr/Cas9 mutagenesis of the zebrafish
: 711 Light Hall
- : patrick.s.page-mccaw@Vanderbilt.Edu
- : (615) 936-8283
MD PhD Student, Stafford lab, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
: 7445 MRB IV
Professor Emeritus, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Hormonal control of carbohydrate metabolism
Professor and Chairman, Physiology / Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, 1952-1984
During his more than 3 decades of leadership in the Department of Physiology, Dr. Park’s research efforts with the group of investigators he recruited to Vanderbilt yielded tremendous advancements in the understanding of a variety of metabolic processes. These include the regulation of glucose entry into cells by insulin, hormonal control of gluconeogenesis and glycolysis, and intracellular actions of hormones acting via cyclic AMP and its protein kinase. Two of his many honors include the Banting Award of the American Diabetes Association in 1979 and election to the National Academy of Sciences in 1980.
Research Fellow / Colbran Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Research Interest:
Many normal cognitive behaviors depend on precise regulation of the connections between neurons in a brain region called the striatum. Regulation of striatal neuron connections is thought to depend on calcium entry through membrane channels that can activate the intracellular signaling protein CaMKII. My studies elucidate mechanisms of calcium dependent striatal regulation that may provide potential strategies to treat diverse neurological and psychiatric disorders.
: 724 Robinson Research Building
- : johanna.c.gandy@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-322-4389
Professor, Psychiatry
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Our research program focuses on the role of endocannabinoids in stress-induced neuroadaptation.
: 724 RRB
- : sachin.patel@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 936-7768
Research Fellow / Mchaourab Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 741 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232- : dungeng.peng@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-322-3319
Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs, Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
Professor, Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
Snyder Chair, Medical Education and Administration
Professor, Cell and Developmental Biology
Professor , Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Professor
A Molecular and Cellular Characterization of Ocular Angiogenesis
: 8009 Medical Center East, North Tower
- : john.penn@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 936-1485
Graduate Student, Colbran lab, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
Brain function relies on the formation and stabilization of synapses, and many neurological disorders are associated with disruptions in synaptic signaling. Scaffolding proteins play a critical role in maintaining spine morphology and bringing receptors and ion channels in close proximity to their downstream signaling molecules. In the Colbran lab, I study protein-protein interactions between CaMKII and scaffolds in the postsynaptic spines of neurons, and how they regulate downstream signaling. I am also interested in how neurons signal from the synapse to the nucleus in order to initiate gene transcription, an important process in learning and memory.
BA, DePauw University
: 724 RRB
- : tyler.perfitt@vanderbilt.edu
Professor , Gene Expression Laboratory, HHMI
Post-doctoral Fellow, WL Taylor Laboratory
: Salk Institute
La Jolla, CA, - 93207
Graduate student and Postdoctoral Fellow with James May 2008-2014, Michigan State University
Currently: Industrial Postdoctoral Fellow
Assistant, Associate and Full Professor, Physiology / Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, 1972-1986
The research area pursued by Dr. Pilkis involved hormonal control of hepatic gluconeogenesis and glycolysis via alterations in enzyme activities. He discovered fructose-2,6-bisphosphate, the key allosteric modulator of phosphofructokinase and fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase, the bifunctional enzyme which synthesizes and degrades this regulator, and identified the gene that encodes this protein. This led to his extensive study of the hormonally-mediated regulation of the enzymatic activities of the bifunctional enzyme, including studies of its genetic expression. Dr. Pilkis became Professor and Chairman of Physiology and Biophysics at The State University of New York at Stony Brook in 1986.
Adjoint Professor, Washington University (St. Louis)
In vivo studies of stimulus-secretion coupling and glucose metabolism dynamics
: 747 Light Hall
- : dave.piston@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 322-7030
Instructor, Assistant, Associate and Full Professor, Physiology / Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, 1948-1991
Dr. Post is credited with identifying the sodium and potassium ATPase active transporter of cell membranes, which is responsible for maintaining the proper concentrations of sodium and potassium in cells. Dr. Post pursued highly successful studies on the mechanism of action and energetics of the transporter, the results of which have also been extended to an understanding of many other transport systems. Among his many honors and awards is the 1983 Cole Award from the Biophysical Society.
Joe C. Davis Chair in Biomedical Science, Medicine, and Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Professor, Vanderbilt Diabetes Center
Director, Division of Diabetes and Endocrinology
Director
Pancreatic Islet Biology, Vascularization, Development, Regeneration, and Imaging; Diabetes
https://www.powersbrissovaresearch.org/
Professor, Medicine
Professor, Cancer Biology
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Role of arachidonic acid derived lipids in angiogenesis and tumorigenesis
: B-3115 MCN
- : ambra.pozzi@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 322-4637
Research Fellow / Kenworthy Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 718 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232- : krishnan.raghunathan@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-322-6617
Research Fellow, Mchaourab Lab
In Mchaourab’s lab I study the functional dynamics of neurotransmitter transporters that are involved in neurological diseases
: 741 Light Hall
- : suhaila.rahman@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 322 3319
Cornelius Vanderbilt Professor of Immunobiology, Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology
Director, Vanderbilt Center for Immunobiology
Research Instructor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 711 Light Hall
- : silvia.ravera@Vanderbilt.Edu
Administrative Manager, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics and Quantitative Systems Biology
: 704 Robinson Research Building
- : patsy.raymer@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 322-7002
Graduate Student, Piston laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
: 747 Light Hall
- : chris.reissaus@vanderbilt.edu
Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine
Assistant Professor, Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophyiscs
Research Instructor, Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophyiscs
Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Mitochondrial genetics and diseases. Toxicity mechanisms of HIV treatment. Pathogenesis of protein variations.
: 507B Light Hall
- : david.c.samuels@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 343-7870
Research Fellow / Piston Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 747 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232- : llynn.e.samuelson@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-322-9710
Graduate Student, Powers laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
In the Powers Lab, I am investigating the role of pancreatic endothelial cell populations in the islet microenvironment, by determining their role in macrophage recruitment and beta cell regeneration. I am also isolating subpopulations of human islet cells, ultimately characterizing how gene expression varies during developmental stages and in disease states.
: 8435 MRB IV
Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Associate Professor, Cell and Developmental Biology
Associate Professor, Cancer Biology
Identifying the transcription factors that control the conversion to EMT and metastasis in breast cancer.
: 710B Light Hall
- : linda.sealy@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 322-3224
Graduate Student, Vickers laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
Communication by HDL-miRNAs in Type 2 Diabetes
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that post-transcriptionally repress gene expression and are found in both cells and extracellular fluids, including plasma. Extracellular miRNAs are protected from circulating nucleases through their association with lipid and protein carriers, specifically exosomes and lipoproteins.. Currently, I am studying the role of high-density lipoproteins (HDL)-miRNAs as cell-to-cell messengers in a novel endocrine-like communication pathway within Type 2 diabetes. We found that many of the most abundant miRNAs on HDL are also enriched in insulin-producing β-cells in the islets of Langerhans. Additionally, we found that the miRNA signature on HDL is significantly altered in rat models of Type 2 diabetes; therefore, the goal of my project is to investigate the molecular mechanisms by which the β-cell-originating miRNAs control gene expression in distal tissues and how this pathway regulates systemic lipid and glucose metabolism. Using high-throughput genomics, I aim to decode and control miRNA intercellular communication to better understand and treat type 2 diabetes, including developing biomarkers to predict pre-diabetes.
: 358 RRB
Research Instructor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 747 Light Hall
- : brinda.selvaraj@Vanderbilt.Edu
- : 615-322-4012
Research Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Hepatic Glucose Flux Regulation in Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes.
: 710 Robinson Research Building
- : masakazu.shiota@Vanderbilt.Edu
- : (615) 936-1092
Research Instructor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 710 Robinson Research Building
- : chiyo.shiota@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-936-3654
Research Instructor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 762 Robinson Research Building
2222 Pierce Avenue
Nashville, TN - 37232- : chiyo.shiota@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-936-3654
Research Fellow / Colbran Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 724 Robinson Research Building
2200 Pierce Avenue
Nashville, - 37232- : brian.shones@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-322-4389
Research Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Research on the mechanism of the regulatioin of enocannabinoid signaling.
: 724 Robinson Research Building
Nashville, - 37232- : brian.shonesy@Vanderbilt.edu
- : (334) 221-9420
Research Instructor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
The role of noradrenergic and CRH circuits in moude models of alcoholism
: 754 Robinson Research Building
2200 Pierce Avenue
Nashville, - 37232- : yuval.silberman@vanderbilt.edu
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
We study how environmental factors, such as nutrition and hormones, impact the development of neural circuits that control behavior and metabolism in order to better understand how early events in an individual’s life influence traits like feeding and metabolic physiology.
: 747 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, TN - 37232-0615- : richard.simerly@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-322-7030
Research Fellow / Stein Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 723 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232- : jason.m.spaeth@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-322-7027
Research Instructor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 747 Light Hall
- : dollada.srisai@vanderbilt.edu
- : 319-471-5834
Associate Professor, Medicine
Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Cardiovascular risk associated with diabetes and obesity. Lipid Metabolism and HDL, Sex-differences in metabolism
: 7445 MRB IV
- : john.stafford@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 936-6113
Mark Collie Chair in Diabetes Research, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Professor, Cell and Developmental Biology
Professor
Focused on defining the transcription factors involved in controlling the expression of Pdx-1 and MafA. In addition, we are examining how transcriptional factors influence beta cell formation and function.
: 8425C MRB IV
- : roland.stein@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 322-7026
Research Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 741 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232- : richard.a.stein@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-322-3319
Research Fellow / Colbran Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 724 Robinson Research Building
2200 Pierce Avenue
Nashville, - 37232- : jason.stephenson@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-322-4389
Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Associate Professor, Psychiatry
Genetic basis of autism spectrum disorders; molecular genetics; statistical genetics; epigenetics, neuropsychiatric genetics; phenotypic dissection of complex genetic disorders (autism, anxiety, major depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other related conditions)
: 8114 MRB III
- : james.s.sutcliffe@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 936-3626
Professor, Physiology / Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, 1963-1973
Dr. Sutherland’s discovery of adenyl cyclase and cyclic AMP was a seminal contribution and led to the concept of intracellular second messenger signaling. His research linking changes in intracellular enzyme activity to hormones such as glucagon and epinephrine provided a foundation for subsequent decades of work in the areas of hormonal regulation of intracellular metabolism and other processes. These important contributions resulted in election to the National Academy of Sciences and the Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine in 1971 for Dr. Sutherland.
Graduate Student, O'Brien laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
The prevalence type 2 diabetes (T2D) continues to increase worldwide. Multiple SNPs associated with altered risk of T2D have been identified through genome wide association studies including rs13266634 in the SLC30A8 locus, which encodes zinc transporter 8 (ZnT8). In addition, rare mutations resulting in SLC30A8 haploinsufficiency are protective against T2D. Using several mouse models, we are investigating the role that ZnT8 plays in beta cell function and the potential of ZnT8 as a therapeutic target for T2D.
: 8415 MRB IV
Research Instructor, Molecular Physiology and Biophyiscs
: 735B Light Hall
- : hirohide.takahashi@Vanderbilt.Edu
- : 615-343-4376
Graduate Student, Neurt laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
Adjoint Assistant Professor, Novartis Institute for Biomedical Research
Neuroimaging Genetics; Statistical & computational genetics; Structural & functional neuroimaging; Neuropsychiatric, Neurodegenerative & Neurodevelopmental disorders; Alzheimer Disease; Down syndrome; Williams syndrome; anxiety; depression; chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment
: Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research
- : t.thornton-wells@vanderbilt.edu
Graduate Student, Wasserman laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
Liver is a primary site of macronutrient metabolism. Obesity linked diseases of the liver such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) result in ECM expansion, defective hormonal responses, and disrupted transcriptional networks. Integrin receptors and their immediate post-receptor pathways convert sensory inputs from the ECM to biochemical processes within the cell. Altered expression of several integrin signaling components accompanies the metabolic dysregulation that occurs in high fat (HF)-fed mice. The mechanisms linking ECM expansion and integrin signaling to metabolic disease are a primary focus of our lab. My research utilizes hepatocyte specific knockout of several integrin signaling components (e.g. integrin α5, integrin β1, and Integrin-linked kinase) in mice to fully characterize these pathways and their involvement in pathologic responses of the liver to high fat feeding.
: 823 Light Hall
- : elijah.trefts@vanderbilt.edu
Research Fellow / Piston Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Research Interest: I am currently investigating the function of dopamine in the pancreatic islets with the goal of understanding how observed dopaminergic feedback regulates glucose stimulated insulin secretion.
: 747 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232- : alessandro.ustione@vanderbilt.edu
Graduate Student, Neuert Laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
In the Neuert Lab, I study long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), a class of non-protein coding transcripts that represents an emerging, previously unrecognized layer of gene regulation. LncRNAs have been shown to mediate important biological processes ranging from cell cycle progression and cellular reprogramming to dosage compensation in mammalian development, but their mechanisms of action remain poorly understood. I work toward addressing these fundamental knowledge gaps.
Associate Professor, Medicine
Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
To investigate mechanisms and consequences of HDL microRNA communication and systemic homeostasis. Short term goals include the characterization of microRNA regulatory modules controlling cholesterol biosynthesis. Moreover, we aim to determine i.) How microRNAs are selected and exported to HDL, ii.) How microRNAs are transported on HDL and altered in disease, and iii.) How microRNAs are transferred to recipient cells and regulate genes related to cholesterol and lipoprotein homeostasis.
: 358 PRB
- : kasey.c.vickers@vanderbilt.edu
Graduate Student, Jacobson laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
The deterioration of pancreatic islet function is a hallmark of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In the Jacobson lab, I study the physiological functions of an islet potassium channel, TALK-1. TALK-1 is the most transcriptionally abundant potassium channel in insulin-secreting β-cells, and polymorphisms in TALK-1 are associated with an increased susceptibility for T2DM. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying TALK-1’s contributions to T2DM pathogenesis remain unclear. Using a variety of experimental approaches, including electrophysiology, calcium imaging, hormone secretion, and mouse models, we have recently found that TALK-1 channels regulate islet calcium homeostasis and insulin secretion. These findings suggest that TALK-1 could serve as a therapeutic target in T2DM.
: 7415 MRB IV
- : nicholas.c.vierra@Vanderbilt.Edu
Graduate Student, Venters laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
: 746 RRB
Graduate Student, Powers laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
My project focuses on defining the molecular signatures defining islet dysfunction in recent-onset type 2 diabetes in human tissues. To do this, I am characterizing the functional, morphologic, and transcriptional profiles of islets from individuals with type 2 diabetes using a combination of human pancreatic tissue, isolated islets, and sorted islet cell populations. I am also investigating the source of amyloid heterogeneity in type 2 diabetic islets.
Assistant Vice Chancellor for Research, Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology
University Veterinarian, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Director Division of Animal Care
Associate Professor
Associate Professor
Diseases of nonhuman primates
Animal models of obesity and metabolic syndrome
: AA-6224 MCN
- : jeanne.wallace@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 343-9380
Annie Mary Lyle Chair, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Professor, Mouse Metabolic Phenotyping Center
Director
We study the role of physical exercise, insulin-stimulation and diet in metabolism.
: 823 Light Hall
- : david.wasserman@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 343-7336
Research Fellow / Li Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 511L Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232- : qiang.wei@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-609-5319
Research Instructor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 511 Light Hall
- : qiang.wei@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-609-5319
Professor Emeritus, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Molecular mechanisms of transcriptional regulation
: 746 MRB I
- : tony.weil@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 322-7007
Research Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Director, Cell Imaging Shared Resource
: 742 Light Hall
- : sam.wells@vanderbilt.edu
Graduate Student, Vickers laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
Extracellular microRNAs have been identified in plasma, and our laboratory has identified these extracellular microRNAs are carried by lipoproteins including high-density lipoprotein (HDL). The goal of our laboratory is to characterize the role of these extracellular microRNAs, particularly to elucidate whether extracellular microRNAs may function as a novel cell-to-cell communication pathway. Within cells, microRNAs are small non-coding RNAs that post-transcriptionally regulate gene expression. Specifically, I study the myeloid-derived microRNA, miR-223, to understand to what tissue and cell types receive microRNA-223 after being exported from myeloid cells. To do this, I utilize bone marrow transplants between wild-type and miR-223 knockout mice to restore or deplete the myeloid (miR-223 donor cell) population. After restoring or depleting the myeloid population (miR-223 donor cell) I examine variety of tissue types and pure cell isolations to map out the delivery of extracellular miR-223 in vivo. My second project focuses on the role of endothelial microRNAs in the progression of Chronic Kidney Disease-associated atherosclerosis. I have found that complexing two microRNA inhibitors to HDL, allows me to effectively reduce endothelial microRNA levels. The decreased microRNA levels result in a dramatic reduction in atherosclerosis in vivo, which may be mediated through altered FAM220a regulation of STAT3 activation causing less inflammation.
: 358 PRB
Gordon A. Cain University Professor, Biomedical Engineering
A. B. Learned Professor of Living Physics, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Professor
Professor
Development and application of microdevices for instrumenting and controlling single living cells
: 6809 Stevenson Center
- : john.wikswo@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 343-4124
Graduate Student, Wasserman laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
: 823 Light Hall
Graduate Student, Wasserman laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
Impaired insulin-stimulated muscle glucose uptake is a hallmark of insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes. Before insulin can stimulate the muscle to take up glucose, it must first cross the endothelial barrier that separates the plasma from the interstitial fluid that bathes myocytes. I have developed an intravital microscopy technique which allows us to directly visualize and quantitate the trans-endothelial efflux of insulin in skeletal muscle. I am using this technique to 1) determine the mechanism by which insulin crosses the endothelium (i.e. receptor-mediated transport or passive diffusion) and 2) determine if impaired trans-endothelial movement of insulin may contribute to muscle insulin resistance.
: 823 Light Hall
Assistant Professor, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center
The role of Bed nucleus of the stria terminalus in addiction.
: Room 6103 Medical Education Building
1901 Perdido Street
New Orleans, - 70112- : twills@lasuhsc.edu
- : (317) 514-1913
Director, Vanderbilt Center for Addiction Research (VCAR)
Bixler-Johnson-Mayes Professor, Departments of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Pharmacology, and Psychiatry
Synaptic mechanisms in addiction and anxiety.
: 875A Light Hall
- : danny.winder@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 322-1144
Adjoint Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
The effect of aerobic exercise training on in vivo hepatic glucose metabolism in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus
: 710 Robinson Research Building
2200 Pierce Avenue
Nashville, - 37232- : jason.winnick@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-322-7014
Graduate Student, Hawiger laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
Professor, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Metabolic engineering; systems biology; diabetes, obesity and metabolic disorders; tumor metabolism; autotrophic metabolism; cell culture engineering
: 212-B Olin Hall
- : j.d.young@vanderbilt.edu
- : (615) 343 4253
Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
The Zaganjor laboratory investigates the role of mitochondrial function in cell fate decisions and the implications of this regulation in physiology. Importantly, we are focused on identifying how altered mitochondrial function leads to pathology.
: 754 Robinson Research Building
- : elma.zaganjor@Vanderbilt.Edu
- : https://lab.vanderbilt.edu/zaganjor-lab/
Research Fellow / Cone Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
: 8435 MRB IV
2213 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232- : liyuan.zhao@vanderbilt.edu
- : 615-936-8144
Current Position Title, Current Job Placeholder
Formerly a research instructor in the Mchaourab Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Multi drug transporters
