BS, Brigham Young University (1978) MS, Brigham Young University (1980) Ph.D., University of Wisconsin--Madison (1986) Postdoctoral Fellow, Harvard University (1986-89) Visiting Scientist, The William Harvey Research Institute, London, England (1995-96)

Biochemistry

My laboratory's research focuses on signal transduction in the cancer cell. In particular, we are interested in a group of genes we have cloned that are activated during cell division. Our research determined that one of these genes encodes a previously undescribed cyclooxygenase, a critical enzyme involved in the synthesis of prostaglandins and thromboxane. These fatty-acid derived molecules are hormone-like messengers that play a role in many critical physiological processes, including inflammation. Aspirin and other antiinflammatory drugs inhibit cyclooxygenase, and reduce fever, pain, and inflammation through inhibiting this enzyme. We continue to investigate the role(s) of cyclooxygenase in cancer formation. Additionally we work on other growth-associated genes, including oncogenes and anti-oncogenes, that may provide insight into solving the mystery of cancer.