Vibhuti Agrawal (White Lab)

ERK Mediated Phosphorylation and Stabilization of ZEB1 is Necessary for EMT Induction

Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been shown to play a critical role in regulating cancer metastasis and emergence of drug resistant tumor cells. In this study we have investigated changes in dynamic signaling networks during ZEB1 induced EMT to identify potential therapeutic targets to inhibit EMT. Here, we show that SRC family kinases are essential for EMT induction. We have also identified three novel ERK mediated phosphorylation sites on ZEB1, the master regulator of EMT, that are indispensable for ZEB1 stability.

Reginald Avery (Olsen Lab)

Functionalized Protein-Based Hydrogels for Management of Internal Bleeding

Minimally-invasive management of internal bleeding currently relies on delivery of basic materials (e.g. metal coils, plastic beads, adhesives) to a wound site in a surgical setting. However, these systems cannot assist first responders treating patients directly after a traumatic injury. I will present shear-thinning and self-assembling hydrogel systems that can manage internal bleeding. Ideally, these approaches can be used in surgical and trauma environments by clinicians or first responders to treat known or unknown sources of bleeding.