This group of investigators seeks to understand
the signal transduction pathways regulating key proteins and genes
involved in the physiological and pathophysiological control of
metabolism and related intracellular processes. These activities
include studies of membrane receptors and transporters for key
hormones and neurotransmitters, intracellular GTP binding proteins,
second messengers, protein kinases and phosphoprotein phosphatases,
as well as proteins involved in the release of hormones and
neurotransmitters. Several investigators also study the oxidative
stress that often results from aberrant signaling in many cells and
tissues, especially in the context of diabetes-related
complications. Central to this research area is the concept that
hyperglycemia generates oxidant stress, likely via glucose-induced
superoxide generation by mitochondria. Excess superoxide escapes
the mitochondria and has widespread effects of many pathways that
contribute to both micro-and macro-vascular complications of
diabetes.
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