Janis M Burt

Interests

Research

Research Interests Research in my laboratory is focused on the mechanisms underlying coordinated function of the heart and blood vessels by connexin proteins. These proteins form channels between the interiors of neighboring cells (gap junction channels) in virtually all tissues of the body, thereby providing the cells a pathway for exchange of information (communication) that supports coordinated tissue function in health, disease and injury. Compromised function of this intercellular communication pathway can lead to fatal cardiac arrhythmias, failure to provide tissues with adequate blood flow, and loss of growth control (leading to cancer and poor tissue recovery from injury). In ongoing studies we are testing the general hypothesis that phosphorylation-dependent and connexin-specific differences in 1) the permselective and gating properties of gap junction channels and 2) interactions with other proteins provides cells of the CV system strategies for maintaining coordinated contraction/relaxation functions while simultaneously providing them a “molecular switch” that supports their transition between the growth and quiescent states necessary for tissue development and remodeling.

Courses

Scholarly Contributions

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