Dr. Hadwiger's Lab
Eukaryotic cells respond to a wide variety of external signals that can regulate cellular growth, division, differentiation, migration, and function. Many of these signals are detected by G protein coupled receptors stimulate specific cell responses. The goals of Dr. Hadwiger's research program are to identify the molecular components of G protein mediated signal transduction pathways and to elucidate how these components act together to transmit signals important for developmental processes such as cellular migration and differentiation. Dr. Hadwiger's laboratory has investigated signaling pathways that regulate the foraging and development of Dictyostelium. This model organism provides an excellent system for the genetic and biochemical characterization of cell movement, cell differentiation, and cell-cell signaling. The research in Dr. Hadwiger's lab has provided insight into proteins and mechanisms that are important for signal transduction pathway specificity.
Approach
Molecular genetic analysis of signal transduction pathways by identifying pathway components and the mechanisms by which these components are regulated.
Classes Taught
- MICR 6323 Current Topics in Eukaryotic Signal Transduction and Gene Regulation
- MICR 4233/5233 Advanced Cell and Molecular Biology
- MICR 4253 Concepts in Medical Genetics