Thomas M Bodenstine, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics
- Associate ProfessorBiochemistry and Molecular Genetics
- Midwestern University, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, SH 421-G, 555 31st Street, Downers Grove, Illinois, 60515, USA
RESEARCH INTERESTS
Gap junctions are regulated intercellular pores formed by the connexin family of proteins that allow for passage of ions, signaling molecules and nutrients between epithelial cells. Proper regulation of gap junction communication contributes to cellular homeostasis and tissue function.
During cancer development, the normal roles of connexins are often dysregulated. Expression of connexin genes may be lost or connexin protein function may be altered. Collectively, these changes can affect how cancer cells function and respond to therapy. Interestingly, gap junction communication can be restored within metastatic tumor cells by modulation of signaling pathways without the need for exogenous expression of connexin genes.
The focus of my laboratory aims to understand the pathway alterations that lead to changes in connexin function during cancer progression, and how this information may be used from a therapeutic standpoint.
During cancer development, the normal roles of connexins are often dysregulated. Expression of connexin genes may be lost or connexin protein function may be altered. Collectively, these changes can affect how cancer cells function and respond to therapy. Interestingly, gap junction communication can be restored within metastatic tumor cells by modulation of signaling pathways without the need for exogenous expression of connexin genes.
The focus of my laboratory aims to understand the pathway alterations that lead to changes in connexin function during cancer progression, and how this information may be used from a therapeutic standpoint.
GRANTS
- MWU INTRAMURAL GRANTCharacterizing Metabolic Reprogramming in Breast Cancer Cells Using a Seahorse BioanalyzerPeople funded by this grant:
- Bodenstine T
- MWU INTRAMURAL GRANTEvaluating Metabolic Flexibility of Fatty Acid Oxidation in Breast Cancer CellsPeople funded by this grant:
- Bodenstine T
- MWU INTRAMURAL GRANTExploring Cadherin-11 and Connexin 43 Interactions During Metabolic Reprogramming in Breast Cancer CellsPeople funded by this grant:
- Bodenstine T
- MWU INTRAMURAL GRANTIdentifying Gap Junction-dependent Functions of Polyploid Giant Cancer Cells in Breast CancerPeople funded by this grant:
- Bodenstine T
- MWU INTRAMURAL GRANTRole of Cadherin-11 in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Subpopulations During Metabolic ReprogrammingPeople funded by this grant:
- Bodenstine T