Research activities in this laboratory utilize cellular, molecular, and genetic approaches to explore the structure and function of lipid transport proteins, as well as their roles in normal physiology and pathophysiologic conditions such as coronary artery disease, diabetes and obesity, hyperlipidmia, and nutrient digestion and transport.   Funding in support of these research activities are provided by NIH RO1 grants, Program Project Grant, and a grant from the pharmaceutical industry.  The currently ongoing projects are:

1) Lipid-transport independent cell signaling properties of apolipoprotein E in protection against vascular occlusive diseases

2) Role of apoE binding cell surface receptors in cell signaling

3) Pancreatic lipolytic enzymes and intestinal lipid transport proteins in lipid absorption and intestinal lipoprotein biosynthesis

4) Novel role of Group 1B phospholipase A₂ in diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance

5) Importance of apoE and apoE receptors in nutrient partitioning and diabetes/obesity

6) Lipid metabolic disorders and atherosclerosis associated with HIV protease inhibitor therapy

7) Structure-function relationship of carboxyl ester lipase (CEL) and its role in atherosclerosis