Mission Statement:
Translating our discoveries in the endothelium to human physiology and disease
Endothelial cell (EC) health is largely determined by the regulation of transcription factors that control the transcriptome and identity of ECs. These transcriptional regulators rely on nucleocytoplasmic shuttling, where the control of transcription factor subcellular localization is essential for EC health. The controlled exchange of molecules between the nucleus and cytoplasm occurs through nuclear pore complexes, one of the largest components of the nuclear envelope. In the Lee Lab, we study the contribution of nuclear pore proteins (i.e. nucleoporins) in vascular health and disease. We are also interested in understanding how endothelial Akt activity influences atherosclerotic disease progression with focus on novel downstream effectors of Akt. Given the vast size of the endothelium and the importance of a healthy vasculature in all organ systems, detailing a major signaling pathway from a cell-specific perspective will enhance our current understanding of blood vessel functionality and vessel homeostasis.
The Lee Lab utilizes a combination of high-content screening together with modern in vitro and in vivo techniques to allow for a multi-tier, integrative approach toward translational research.
We are a highly collaborative, enthusiastic team of scientists driven by scientific curiosity and a quest for knowledge. We aim to discover new biological processes to contribute to our overall understanding of human health and disease.
Please contact us if you are interested in joining!
Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells stained for actin (green-phallodin), mitochondria (red-MitoTracker), and nuclei (blue-DAPI)
Mouse retinal vasculature stained for endothelium (red-isoB4), pericytes (green-NG2), and proliferation (cyan-PH3)
Mouse brachiocephalic artery stained for lipids post-Western Diet feeding (Oil Red O)