All Personnel (alphabetical)

Complete Directory of all MPB Personnel

POD 3

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

Kristie Aamodt, BS, Brigham Young University

MD PhD Student, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Powers laboratory.

Kristie Aamodt

Graduate Student 2011-2015

PI: Alvin Powers, M.D.

: kristieaamodt@gmail.com

Erica Joan Pruett Anderson, BS

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.

Julio E. Ayala, PhD

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

Caleigh Mariko Azumaya, BS

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)

Ashlee Bartley

Assistant to the Chair, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

: 738 RRB
2215 Garland Ave
: ashlee.l.bartley@vanderbilt.edu
: (615) 936-7087

Jason R. Becker, MD

Assistant Professor, Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine
Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Molecular mechanisms of inherited cardiomyopathies.

Albert H. Beth, PhD

Professor Emeritus, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Structure, dynamics, and interactions of membrane proteins

Nathan Bingham, MD, PhD

Assistant Professor, Pediatrics

Pediatric Endocrinology

: 11136 Doctors' Office Tower
: nathan.bingham@vanderbilt.edu
: (615) 322-7427

William Reid Bolus, BS

Graduate Student, Alyssa Hasty laboratory, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

I study the role of eosinophils in adipose tissue homeostasis, specifically during periods of weight gain or weight loss. In particular, I seek to understand how eosinophils impact key aspects of adipose tissue physiology such as macrophage inflammatory state, vascularization, extracellular matrix remodeling, and adipocyte insulin sensitivity.

: Light Hall

Kayla Boortz, BS

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.

Karin Janae Bosma

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.

: karin.j.bosma@vanderbilt.edu

Milam A. Brantley, MD, PhD

Associate Professor, Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences
Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Pharmacogenomics and metabolomics of retinal diseases

Jonathan Brown, MD, PhD

Assistant Professor, Medicine, Center for Quantitative Science

Systems Biology

: 352 Preston Research Building
Division of Cardiovascular Medicine
Nashville, TN - 37232
: jonathan.d.brown@vanderbilt.edu
: (615) 936-1556

Adrian Gabriel Cadar, BS

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.

Bethany Carboneau, BA

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.

Sheridan Jared Carrington, BBMedSci

Graduate Student, Cone and Mchaourab Laboratories, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics

My thesis research aims to investigate how G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) regulate the trafficking of a novel ion channel, Kir7.1. Our lab has found that the GPCR melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R), interacts with the Kir7.1 inwardly rectifying potassium channel to regulate energy homeostasis. We have found that MC4R can modulate the activity of Kir7.1 independent of G-proteins, and my project seeks to identify the molecular basis for this interaction.

: 8435 MRB IV
: sheridan.j.carrington@Vanderbilt.Edu

Roger Chalkley, D. Phil.

Senior Associate Dean for Biomedical Research, Education and Training , Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Professor , Medical Education and Administration
Professor

Wenbiao Chen, PhD

Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics

Genetic basis of susceptibility to type 2 diabetes.

Rui Chen, PhD

Research Fellow, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics

: 511 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232
: rui.chen@vanderbilt.edu
: 615-925-5009

Alan D Cherrington, PhD

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

Ashley Christensen

Graduate Student, Gannon Laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics

: ashley.smith.1@vanderbilt.edu

Derek P Claxton, PhD

Research Instructor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

: 741 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232
: derek.p.claxton@vanderbilt.edu
: 615-322-3319

Katie Coate, PhD

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

Charles E Cobb, PhD

Research Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Membrane Protein Structure and Function, Antioxidant Vitamins, ESR Spectroscopy, Fluorescence Spectroscopy,Membrane,Protein Structure,Spectroscopy

Roger J. Colbran, PhD

Professor, Interim 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

Roger Cone, PhD

Director, Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan
Adjunct Professor, Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Previously Chair of the Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics. Currently Director of Life Science Institute at the University of Michigan.

: Lab 6115 Life Sciences Institute
University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, MI - 48109
: rcone@umich.edu
: (615) 936-7085

Courtney Copeland, BS

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.

Jackie D. Corbin, PhD

Professor Emeritus, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Mechanisms of cyclic GMP mediation of hormone action

Jackie D Corbin, PhD

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

Jackie D. Corbin, Ph.D.

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.

: jackie.corbin@Vanderbilt.Edu

Matthew Cottam

Graduate Student, Hasty laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics

Dana C. Crawford, PhD

Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

My primary research interest is how genetic variation impacts common, complex human phenotypes.

Holly Cyphert, PhD

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

Travis Cyphert, PhD

Research Fellow, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics

: 831 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232
: travis.j.cyphert@vanderbilt.edu
: 615-343-7415

Bethany Lyn Dale

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

Bruce M Damon, PhD

Associate Professor, Radiology and Radiological Sciences
Associate Professor, Biomedical Engineering
Associate 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

Reza Dastvan, PhD

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

Niels de Jonge, PhD, University of Freiburg

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

Danielle Dean, PhD, Emory Univesity

Research Fellow, Powers Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

I study mechanisms regulating plasticity of alpha cells in the pancreatic islet.

Eric Delpire, PhD

Professor, Anesthesiology
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Molecular physiology of cation-chloride cotransport mechanisms in the nervous system.

Emmanuele DiBenedetto, PhD

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

Matthew Dickerson, PhD

Research Fellow, 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

Ken James Drake, BS, Cal State

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.

Dale Scott Edgerton, PhD

Research Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

: 710 Robinson Research Building
: dale.edgerton@vanderbilt.edu
: (615) 343-3193

Amicia Elliott, PhD

Graduate Student, David Piston's laboratory 2014, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics
Postdoctoral Fellow, Benjamin White & Hari Shroff at the NIMH and NIBIB

: adelliott@gmail.com

Joseph Elsakr, BSE

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.

: joseph.elsakr@vanderbilt.edu

Ronald B. Emeson, PhD

Joel G. Hardman Professor , Pharmacology
Professor, Psychiatry
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Molecular neurobiology.

John H. Exton, MD, PhD

Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Mechanisms of cell signaling

: 711A Light Hall
: john.exton@mcmail.vanderbilt.edu

John H. Exton, M.D., Ph.D.

Instructor, Assistant, Associate and Full Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, 1963-Present

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.

Payam Fathi

Graduate Student, Ayala Laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics

: payam.fathi@vanderbilt.edu

Jordan Taylor Feigerle, BS

Graduate Student, Peter Weil laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics

Yolanda Fernandez Otero, PhD

Research Fellow, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics

: 831 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232
: yolanda.otero@vanderbilt.edu
: 615-343-7415

Liz Anne Ferrick, BS

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

Sharron Francis

Adjunct Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Cyclic Nucleotide Signaling Pathways

Sharron H. Francis, Ph.D.

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.

: sharronfrancis@yahoo.com

Aurelio Galli, PhD

Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Professor, Psychiatry

Trafficking and Biophysics of Neurotransmitter Transporters with emphasis on metabolic regulation of dopamine signaling.

Maureen Anne Gannon, PhD

Professor, Medicine
Professor, Cell and Developmental Biology
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Molecular genetics of pancreas development, organogenesis, morphogenesis, islet function, diabetes, transcription
factors

Crockett Genea, MS

Assistant, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

: genea.crockett@Vanderbilt.Edu

Masoud Ghamari-Langroudi, PhD

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

Karen Gieg

Graduate Education Coordinator, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics and Pharmacology

: 402 Preston Research Building
: karen.gieg@vanderbilt.edu
: (615) 322-1182

Slavina Goleva

Graduate Student, Sweatt laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics

Andrew Young Gordon, BA

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.

John C. Gore, PhD

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)

Jane Q Gradstudent, BS

Sample Lab

I am interested in the structure of the insulin receptor.

: 711H Light Hall
: student@nomai.edu

Daryl Granner, MD

Professor Emeritus, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Hormonal regulation of gene expression

: 702 Light Hall
: daryl.granner@vanderbilt.edu

Daryl K. Granner, M.D.

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.

Brad Grueter, PhD

Assistant Professor, Anesthesiology
Assistant Professor, Psychiatry
Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

: P435H MRB IV

Subhadra C Gunawardana, PhD

Research Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Better therapeutic approaches for Type 1 Diabetes

Volker H Haase, MD

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

Rachana Haliyur

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.

Joel G. Hardman, Ph.D.

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.

Nick Harris, BS

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.

Ray Clement Harris, MD, PhD

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

David Glenn Harrison, MD

Director, Division of Clinical Pharmacology
Professor, Medicine
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Inflammation; Endothelial cell metabolism of tetrahydrobiopterin

Alyssa H. Hasty, PhD

Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

My laboratory is interested in immune-mediated mechanisms of metabolic diseases.

Jacek J Hawiger, MD, PhD

Distinguished Professor, Medicine
Louise B. McGavock Chair,
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Inflammation, Innate Immunity, Biodefense, and Intracellular Delivery of Proteins and Peptides

Andrea Alyssa Hill, BS, Clark Atlanta University

Graduate Student, Alyssa Hasty laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics

I work in Alyssa Hasty's laboratory where we study inflammation and obesity.

: Andrea.hill@vanderbilt.edu

George C. Hill, PhD

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

Merla Hubler, MS

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

Curtis C Hughey, PhD

Research Fellow, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics / Wasserman Lab

: 823 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232
: curtis.hughey.1@vanderbilt.edu
: 615-343-30580

Eric J. Hustedt, PhD

Research Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Advanced electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) techniques combined with computational approaches to study protein compelexes of ankyrin.

David A. Jacobson, PhD

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

Ashwath Jayagopal, PhD

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

Leonard S. "Jim" Jefferson, Ph.D.

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.

Carl H. Johnson, PhD

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

Kelli Jordan

Graduate Student, Jacobson laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics

Erkan Karakas, PhD

Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Structural Biology of Calcium Signaling and Transport through Biological Membranes

: 735B Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, TN - 37232-0615
: erkan.karakas@vanderbilt.edu
: 615-343-4494

Nora Kayton, BS, University of Virginia

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

Ben Kesler, BS

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.

Annet Kirabo, D.V.M., M.Sc., Ph.D.

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

Tetsuro Kono, Ph.D.

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..

Guillaume Kraft, PhD

Research Instructor / Cherrington Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

: 710 Robinson Research Building
2200 Pierce Avenue
Nashville, - 37232
: guillaume.kraft@vanderbilt.edu
: 615-322-7002

Peter Allerton Kropp, BA

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

Rachel W. Kuchtey, MD, PhD

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.

Fred Sanford Lamb, MD, PhD

Professor, Pediatrics
Cornelius Vanderbilt Chair,
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Reactive oxygen species generation following cytokine stimulation.

Matthew John Lang, PhD

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.

Louise Lantier, PhD

Research Instructor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Metabolic Pathophysiology Core Managing Director

: 823 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232
: louise.lantier@vanderbilt.edu
: 615-936-4028

Daniel Lark, PhD,

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

Zeno Lavagnino, PhD, Italian Institute of Technology, University of Genoa, Italy

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

Thao Le

Graduate Student, Ayala Laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics

: thao.d.le@vanderbilt.edu

Bingshan Li, PhD

Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Computational and statistical genomics, Bioinformatics, Cancer genomics, Complex diseases, Genetics of psychiatric disorders

Gouliang Li, PhD

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

Mingyu Li, PhD

Research Fellow / Chen Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

: 711 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232
: mingyu.li@vanderbilt.edu
: 615-343-7875

Chee C. Lim, PhD

Assistant Professor, Medicine

Cardiac biology and cardiomyocyte mechanics

Michael Joshua Litt, BA

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

Roxanna Loperena, BS

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.

Tammy Michelle Lundblad, BS, Centre College

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.

Robert L Macdonald, MD, PhD

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.

Lisette Maddison, PhD

Research Instructor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Genetic models of beta cell mass regulation in insulin resistance and diabetes.

Meenakshi S. Madhur, MD, PhD

Assistant Professor, Medicine, Divisions of Clinical Pharmacology and Cardiology
Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

To investigate the role of T cells and T cell-derived cytokines in hypertension and renal/vascular dysfunction

Mark A. Magnuson, MD

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

Pallavi Manral, PhD

Research Fellow / Kenworthy Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

: 718 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232
: pallavi.manral@vanderbilt.edu
: 615-322-6617

Christian Randal Marks, BA

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

Robert T. Matthews, PhD

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

James M. May, MD

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.

Michael J. McCaughey, PhD

Research Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Cellular image analysis and image management, database structures and software development.

: U9203 MRB III
: michael.j.mccaughey@vanderbilt.edu

Owen P McGuinness, PhD

Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Regulation Of Metabolic Response to Inflammation: Interaction With Nutrition

Hassane S. Mchaourab, PhD

Professor, Louis B. McGavock Chair, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Structure and dynamic basis for protein function.

Brian Douglas McKenna, BS, James Madison University

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

Haley Mendoza-Romero

Graduate Student, Simerly Laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics

: haley.n.mendoza-romero@vanderbilt.edu

Amanda Meyer, BA

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.

Maximilian Michel, PhD

Research Fellow / Cone Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

: 8435 MRB IV
2213 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232
: max.michel@vanderbilt.edu
: 615-936-8144

Sarah C. Milian

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.

: sarah.c.milian@vanderbilt.edu

Sanjay Mishra

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

Smriti Mishra, PhD

Research Instructor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Multi drug transporters

: 741 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232
: smriti.smriti@vanderbilt.edu

Sabrina Mitchell, PhD

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.

: sabrina.l.mitchell@vanderbilt.edu

Kim Ramil Montaniel

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

Mary Courtney Moore, PhD

Research Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

liver glucose metabolism, organ balance, tracer methods

Howard E. Morgan, M.D.

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.

Douglas P. Mortlock, PhD

Research Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Long-range gene regulation, genomics, developmental biology, bone and joint development

Terunaga Nakagawa, MD, PhD

Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Molecular and cellular biophysics of synapses

: 766 Robinson Research Building
: terunaga.nakagawa@vanderbilt.edu
: (615) 875-2531

Gregor Neuert, PhD

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.

Kevin Dean Niswender, MD, PhD

Associate Professor, Medicine
Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism

Allison Elizabeth Norlander, BS

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.

Richard M. O'Brien, PhD

Professor, Director of Graduate Studies, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Diabetes and the Glucose-6-Phosphatase Gene Family

Anna Osipovich, PhD

Research Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Characterization of endocrine progenitor cells and acinar to beta cell transdifferentiation

Patrick S. Page-McCaw, PhD

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

Brian T. Palmisano, BS, BA

MD PhD Student, Stafford lab, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics

: 7445 MRB IV

Charles R. Park, MD

Professor Emeritus, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Hormonal control of carbohydrate metabolism

Jane Park, PhD

Professor Emeritus, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Vanderbilt Institute of Imaging Science

We are currently investigating muscle defects in patients with inflammatory diseases, such as dermatomyositis and polymyositis. MRI exams showed that inflammation and fat infiltration in muscle diseases are initially concordant with energy deficits of essential ATP and PCr.

Charles R. "Rollo" Park, M.D.

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.

Johanna Gandy Pasek, PhD

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

Sachin Patel, MD PhD

Associate Professor, Psychiatry
Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Our research program focuses on the role of endocannabinoids in stress-induced neuroadaptation.

Dungene Peng, PhD

Research Fellow / Mchaourab Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

: 741 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232
: dungeng.peng@vanderbilt.edu
: 615-322-3319

John S. Penn, PhD

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

Tyler L. Perfitt, BA

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

Sam Pfaff, PhD

Professor , Gene Expression Laboratory, HHMI
Post-doctoral Fellow, WL Taylor Laboratory

: Salk Institute
La Jolla, CA, - 93207

Marquicia R. Pierce, PhD

Graduate student and Postdoctoral Fellow with James May 2008-2014, Michigan State University
Currently: Industrial Postdoctoral Fellow

: marquicia.pierce@gmail.com

Simon J. Pilkis, M.D., Ph.D.

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.

David W. Piston, PhD

Adjoint Professor, Washington University (St. Louis)

In vivo studies of stimulus-secretion coupling and glucose metabolism dynamics

Robert L. Post, M.D.

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.

Alvin C. Powers, MD

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

http://www.powersresearch.org/

Ambra Pozzi, PhD

Professor, Medicine
Professor, Cancer Biology
Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Role of arachidonic acid derived lipids in angiogenesis and tumorigenesis

Richard L. Printz, PhD

Research Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

: richard.l.printz@vanderbilt.edu

Krishnan Raghunathan, PhD

Research Fellow / Kenworthy Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

: 718 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232
: krishnan.raghunathan@vanderbilt.edu
: 615-322-6617

Suhaila Rahman, PhD

Research Fellow, Mchaourab Lab

In Mchaourab’s lab I study the functional dynamics of neurotransmitter transporters that are involved in neurological diseases

Patsy Raymer

Administrative Manager, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics and Quantitative Systems Biology

: 704 Robinson Research Building
: patsy.raymer@vanderbilt.edu
: (615) 322-7002

Christopher Alan Reissaus, BS

Graduate Student, Piston laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics

: 747 Light Hall
: chris.reissaus@vanderbilt.edu

Tiffany Richardson

Graduate Student, Powers Laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics

: tiffany.m.richardson@vanderbilt.edu

David Charles Samuels, PhD

Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Mitochondrial genetics and diseases. Toxicity mechanisms of HIV treatment. Pathogenesis of protein variations.

Lynn E Samuelson, PhD

Research Fellow / Piston Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

: 747 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232
: llynn.e.samuelson@vanderbilt.edu
: 615-322-9710

Diane Caitlin Saunders, BS, BA

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

Linda J. Sealy, PhD

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.

Leslie Roteta Sedgeman, BA

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

Masakazu Shiota, DVM, PhD

Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Hepatic Glucose Flux Regulation in Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes.

: 762 Robinson Research Building
: masakazu.shiota@Vanderbilt.Edu
: (615) 936-1092

Chiyo Shiota, Ph.D.

Research Instructor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

: 762 Robinson Research Building
2222 Pierce Avenue
Nashville, TN - 37232
: chiyo.shiota@vanderbilt.edu
: 615-936-3654

Chiyo Shiota, Ph.D.

Research Instructor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

: 762 Robinson Research Building
2222 Pierce Avenue
Nashville, TN - 37232
: chiyo.shiota@vanderbilt.edu
: 615-936-3654

Brian Shonesy, PhD

Research Fellow / Colbran Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

: 724 Robinson Research Building
2200 Pierce Avenue
Nashville, - 37232
: brian.shones@vanderbilt.edu
: 615-322-4389

Brian C. Shonesy, Ph.D.

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

Yuval Silberman, PhD

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

Richard B. Simerly, Ph.D.

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

Charles (Duncan) Smart

Graduate Student, Madhur Laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics

: duncan.smart@vanderbilt.edu

Jason M Spaeth, PhD

Research Fellow / Stein Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

: 723 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232
: jason.m.spaeth@vanderbilt.edu
: 615-322-7027

Clare Lindsey Spielman, BA

Graduate Student, Neurt laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics

John Michael Stafford, MD, PhD

Assistant Professor, Medicine
Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Cardiovascular risk associated with diabetes and obesity. Lipid Metabolism and HDL, Sex-differences in metabolism

Roland W. Stein, PhD

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.

Richard A. Stein, PhD

Research Instructor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

: 741 Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232
: richard.a.stein@vanderbilt.edu
: 615-322-3319

Jason Stephenson, PhD

Research Fellow / Colbran Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

: 724 Robinson Research Building
2200 Pierce Avenue
Nashville, - 37232
: jason.stephenson@vanderbilt.edu
: 615-322-4389

James S. Sutcliffe, PhD

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)

Earl W. Sutherland, Jr., M.D.

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.

Kristen Syring, BS

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

Alex Thiemicke, MS, Friedrich-Schiller University, Jena Germany

Graduate Student, Neurt laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics

: alexander.thiemicke@vanderbilt.edu

Tricia Thornton-Wells, PhD

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

Jens Marc Titze, MD

Associate Professor, Medicine
Associate Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Shannon Townsend

Graduate Student, Gannon laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics

Elijah Trefts

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

Alessandro Ustione, PhD

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

Rohit Venkat

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.

: rohit.venkat@vanderbilt.edu

Bryan Venters, PhD

Assistant Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

The goal of my research is to understand the transcriptional mechanisms underpinning the JAK-STAT signaling pathway that lead to human disease and cancer.

: 746 Robinson Research Building
: bryan.venters@vanderbilt.edu
: (615) 322-4761

Kasey C. Vickers

Assistant Professor, Medicine
Assistant 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

Nicholas Catin Vierra, BS

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

Sun Waldron

Vanderbilt Neurochemistry

Danielle Marie Walheim, BS, University of Pittsburgh

Graduate Student, Venters laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics

: 746 RRB

John (Jack) Walker

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.

: j.walker@vanderbilt.edu

Jeanne M. Wallace, DVM

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

David H Wasserman, PhD

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.

Qiang Wei, PhD

Research Fellow / Li Lab, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

: 511L Light Hall
2215 Garland Avenue
Nashville, - 37232
: qiang.wei@vanderbilt.edu
: 615-609-5319

P. Anthony Weil, PhD

Professor Emeritus, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Molecular mechanisms of transcriptional regulation

K. Sam Wells, PhD

Research Professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Director, Cell Imaging Shared Resource

: 742 Light Hall
: sam.wells@vanderbilt.edu

Carrie Beth Wiese, BS

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

John P. Wikswo, Jr, PhD

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

Ashley Silberman Williams, BS, Appalachian State University

Graduate Student, Wasserman laboratory, Molecular Physiology & Biophysics

: 823 Light Hall

Ian Miller Williams, BS

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.