Molecular Hepatology Laboratory

The Molecular Hepatology Laboratory is focused on the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which dysregulation of cell survivial signaling pathways contributes to disease pathogenesis.

The laboratory focuses on the fundamental mechanisms resulting in modulation of expression of genes involved in cell survival, and in particular the role of non-coding RNA and microRNA in these processes. Areas of ongoing research include the study of the role of specific miRNA in the pathogenesis and behavior of liver and biliary tract cancers, and to the relationship of specific miRNA to cell signaling proceses involved in tumor cell behavior.

The laboratory is also interested in understanding the mechanisms by which chronic inflammation results in dysregulation of apoptosis promoting carcinogenesis of the biliary tree, and in particular the cellular processes by which inflammatory cytokines help cells evade apoptosis permitting the accumulation of genetic changes that can foster malignant transformation.

The laboratory is well equipped for cellular and molecular biology and encompasses 1600 square feet of space in the Tzagournis Medical Research Facility adjacent to the Ohio State University Medical Center campus.

Dr. Tushar Patel

Dr. Fanyin Meng

Dr. Chiara Braconi

Erica Swenson

Lyudmila Khrapenko