Request for Funding

Mentor: Philip Shaul
Department: Pediatrics
Room number: E3.608
Mail Code: 9063
Phone number: X82015
E-mail: Philip.shaul@utsouthwestern.edu
Project title: Molecular Basis of Signaling by Scavenger Receptor BI

Human subjects IRB approved project number (where applicable): N/A

Animal subjects IRB approved project number (where applicable): N/A

Project Type (patient-based research, animal-based research, or basic research; this characterization is only to permit a general classification for grouping similar types of projects) basic research

Brief Description of Project: We have recently demonstrated that high density lipoprotein (HDL) causes potent direct activation of endothelial cell nitric oxide (NO) production and endothelial cell migration. These processes involve the binding of HDL to scavenger receptor BI (SR-BI) and the activation of diverse kinase cascades. Importantly, these processes are demonstrable in vivo, suggesting that they may play a critical role in the atheroprotective features of HDL. The aim of the present project is to dissect the domains of SR-BI required for the novel capacity of the receptor to mediate intracellular signaling upon HDL binding. Chimeric forms of SR-BI and the related scavenger receptor CD36 will be transfected into COS-7 cells and the capacity to induce downstream signaling will be tested. It is anticipated that the molecular features of SR-BI underlying signal initiation will be elucidated, thus revealing the basis for the newly-appreciated robust direct actions of HDL on the vascular wall.

Previous Research Activities or Publications with Medical Students: In the past, premedical students and residents have worked in our lab, but not medical students per se.

Return to UT Southwestern Homepage

Return to Student Research Projects Index