Cells respond to a myriad of hormones, growth factors and other extracellular signals. Signal transduction is broadly defined as the mechanism by which cells convey these extracellular signals into specific intracellular responses. As such, signal transduction plays a pivotal role in endocrinology, developmental biology, neurobiology, immunology, and numerous other physiological systems. A number of research groups in the Department are working on the problem of how signals are transmitted across cell membranes via cell surface receptors. Specific areas of investigation include studies on the mechanism of activation of G protein-coupled receptors, G proteins, and their effectors and downstream targets, as well as the elucidation of the signaling molecules activated by the JAK/STAT pathway. In addition, there are ongoing studies on the structure, regulation and nuclear translocation of intracellular steroid hormone receptors, which function as both receptors and transcription factors. The overlapping and complementary interests of this research group have provided a basis for the formation of a highly productive environment with numerous opportunities for collaboration and other supportive interactions.

Signal Transduction Faculty