Chemistry and Biochemistry 2012
Area of Doctoral Study: Biochemistry
Undergraduate Institute: Touro College
Graduate Institute: University of Maryland Baltimore County
Research Advisor: Stuart S. Martin, Ph.D.
Current Position: Adjunct Professor, Ma’alot Baltimore
Description of Research
Foxo1 is a transcription factor that controls the fine balance between muscle atrophy and hypertrophy and thereby has a direct impact on the pathological conditions that result from imbalance. The nuclear/cytoplasmic distribution of Foxo1 is controlled by its phosphorylation status. When Foxo1 is in the nucleus it is considered active, but when it becomes phosphorylated it is retained in the cytoplasm and thus rendered inactive. The general aim of my research is to further elucidate the molecular mechanisms which control the nuclear/cytoplasmic distribution of Foxo1 and thus regulate the balance between muscle atrophy and hypertrophy. Additionally, I am investigating whether the changes observed in Foxo1 behavior in response to various modulations are different in fast-twitch and slow-twitch fibers.