Kalfa Laboratory Research Interests
Research in the Kalfa Laboratory focuses on the study of intracellular signals within the microvascular endothelial cells, specifically the signals conducted by the Rho GTPases. The Rho GTPase family in the human species consist of 22 members (Wherlock and Mellor 2002; Fransson et al. 2003) (http://jcs.biologists.org/cgi/content/full/115/2/239/FIG1). Like all the members of the Ras superfamily, these GTP-hydrolysing enzymes function as molecular switches in the signaling pathways. The Rho GTPases regulate the assembly of the actin cytoskeleton, and thereby can change the morphology of the cells, inducing breakdown of the endothelial wall and exposure of the basement membrane, as well as enabling cell migration. Additionally, they have been shown to play crucial roles in diverse cellular events such as phagocytosis and membrane trafficking, transcriptional regulation, cell growth control, and development (Van Aelst and D'Souza-Schorey 1997).
Two pathologic conditions are the focus of Dr. Kalfa's research:
Related Publications
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Meet the Team
Contact Us
For additional information, please contact Dr. Theodosia Kalfa, Division of Experimental Hematology, at 513-636-0989. Dr. Kalfa's office can be found in room 2363 of Location R (Research Foundation Building).
