Elucidating the molecular mechanisms of signalling pathways

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The cells of our body constantly receive and respond to signals from their surroundings. For example, cells of the immune system respond to invading bacteria and viruses by mounting an immune response, whereas developing neuron cells react to environmental cues to make the intricate cellular connections in our brains. Critical to the ability of cells to sense and respond to their environment are signalling pathways. Signalling pathways consist of an array of biological molecules including proteins, lipids, RNA, and DNA. They perform the task of transmitting information within the cell, and allow cells to translate signals they receive from the environment into biological responses. My laboratory is interested in understanding how signalling molecules work together to elicit these responses. In particular, we strive to understand how the different molecules “talk” to each other in order to relay information within the cell. Through understanding how signal transduction pathways function we can address fundamental questions about how cells perceive and react to their environment. Moreover, since many diseases are caused by signalling pathways not functioning properly, our studies may provide insight into disease processes as well.