Adenosine 32,52-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP)is the prototypic second messenger that regulates a multitude of important biological processes under both physiological and pathological conditions, including diabetes, heart failure, and cancer. In eukaryotic cells, the effects of cAMP are mainly mediated by two ubiquitously expressed intracellular cAMP receptors, the classic cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) and exchange protein directly activated by cAMP (EPAC). My research focus is on elucidating the physiological functions of EPAC proteins and their roles in human diseases.
We apply both genetic and pharmacological approaches to gain understanding of EPAC proteins. We have developed high throughput screen assays, successfully identified novel EPAC specific inhibitors. In collaboration with Dr. Chen at UCSD we have generated EPAC knock out mouse models, which allow us to reveal that EPAC signaling is involved in the development of multiple pathological conditions. With the combination of EPAC specific inhibitors and knockout mouse models, we are in an ideal position to answer important biological questions and to develop potential therapeutics for the treatment of human diseases where EPAC proteins are implicated.
Publications/Creative Works
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