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Research in my laboratory focuses on the cellular
and molecular mechanisms of hormone-induced cell proliferation in reproductive
organs. The gonadotropins, luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating
hormone (FSH), are thought to provide the main stimuli for steroidogenic
and proliferative activity in gonadal cells, whereas steroids themselves
are thought to be the primary stimuli for proliferation in most other
reproductive organs.
Recent evidence suggests that
a variety of growth factors and other peptides either mediate or modulate
the actions of these hormones. Our investigations are directed toward
identifying factors involved in regulating proliferative and activity
in prostate, uterus, and ovary, then defining the molecular pathways
through which these factors act.
Current studies focus on two specific
areas:
| 1) |
Molecular mechanisms
regulating cell proliferation in the prostate. These studies include
projects on regulation of cyclin production, characterization and regulation
of cyclin-dependent kinase activity, identification of cyclin-dependent
kinase targets, and identification of defects in normal regulatory processes
resulting in prostate cancer. |
| 2) |
The actions of leukocyte
secretory products (cytokines) on steroidogenic activity in ovarian
cells. These studies include projects on receptor interactions, signal
transduction pathways, and characterization of novel cytokines in
reproductive tissues. |
Representative Publications:
Holt
K.H., Kasson B. and Pessin J.E. Insulin stimulation of a MEK-dependent
but ERK-independent SOS protein kinase. Mol Cell Biol
16:557-583, 1996.
Ness
J.M. and Kasson B.G. A splenocyte-produced factor stimulates steroidogenesis
but does not induce other differentiated functions in rat granulosa
cells. J Reprod Fertil 105:125-133, 1995.
Simon
J.S. and Kasson B.G. Identification of vasopressin messenger ribonucleic
acid in rat aorta. Hypertension 25:1030-1033, 1995.
Ness
J.M. and Kasson B.G. Induction of rat granulosa cell steroidogenic
enzyme activities and their messenger ribonucleic acids by a splenocyte-derived
factor. Mol Cell Endocrinol 106:163-170, 1994.
Click
here to see a list of additional publications
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