Our recent studies have revealed novel signaling functions of RGS proteins in the nucleus, in neuronal differentiation and development, and in DNA damage signaling responses. We identified an RGS polymorphism (gene variant) in humans associated with a significant reduction in the risk of cancer, providing the first link between RGS protein expression and cancer. These studies raise questions of considerable interest and importance concerning the role of RGS proteins in cellular regulation by mechanisms both dependent on and independent of their regulatory actions on G proteins. Some current projects include identifying novel RGS protein interaction partners, anti-sense and transgene technologies to probe physiological roles of RGS proteins, defining the role of nuclear RGS proteins and determining the mechanisms regulating RGS gene expression.
Rory A. Fisher, PhD
Zili Luo, MD, PhD
Katelin Ahlers, PhD
Bandana Chakrvarti, PhD
Jianqi Yang, PhD
Recent Publications
RGS6 Protein's Role in Cancer and Alcohol Treatment
Protein controls both alcohol craving and organ damage
Protein controls both alcohol craving and organ damage
BY: JENNIFER BROWN | 2015.02.11 | 05:41 PM What if there was a drug that could simultaneously curb a person’s craving for alcohol while also protecting their heart and liver from alcohol’s damaging effects? While an actual pill that can do this might be a ways off, the results of a new study from researchers at the University Read more about Protein controls both alcohol craving and organ damage[…]