Nevada IDeA Networks of Biomedical Research Excellence
Overall Network Organization and Management Plan – Abstract In this proposal the NV INBRE will continue to pursue the goals of enhancing biomedical research infrastructure, research competitiveness, training and workforce development throughout the state of Nevada. The specific focus of this research is Cell Growth and Differentiation. Every two- and four-year teaching college and university […]
Neural Mechanisms of Hypertension
Despite recent advances in pharmacological therapy and patient care, cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Salt-induced hypertension (SH) is a major form of human primary hypertension, which is the main risk factor for CVD. This proposal is designed to elucidate neural mechanisms underlying SH, with a focus on uncovering novel […]
Network Mechanisms of Impaired Adult Hippocampal Neurogenesis in a Mouse Model of Prenatal Alcohol Exposure
The overall goal of this proposal is to establish the relevance of adult hippocampal neurogenesis as a potential therapeutic target for fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), utilizing a well-characterized mouse model of prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE). The significance for adult hippocampal neurogenesis as a potential therapeutic target in fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is based […]
Improved Spatial Resolution in Magnetoencephalography with an Optically Pumped Magnetometer Array
The goal of this project is to optimize a novel strategy for magnetoencephalography (MEG) neuroimaging to substantially improve resolution and reduce cost. MEG is a non-invasive functional neuroimaging method to map brain activity that is useful for both research, e.g. functional brain mapping and clinical applications, e.g. presurgical epilepsy mapping. Commercial MEG systems using superconducting […]
SARS-CoV-2 Genomic Surveillance and Epidemiology in New Mexico
Inorganic metals have long been a focus of biomedical research in New Mexico, due to the high prevalence of mining-related metal contaminants in the region. At the University of New Mexico Center for Metals in Biology and Medicine (UNM CMBM) our main focus will be on both studying adverse health outcomes (including cancer, pulmonary, neurologic, […]
Deep sequencing SARS-CoV-2 samples from New Mexico to interrogate immunological selection on genetic variants
Although vaccination has blunted the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in several countries, the future impact of this virus will depend on its transmissibility, virulence, and ability to evade naturally-acquired and vaccine- mediated immunity. All three phenotypes are currently in flux due to the evolution and spread of novel SARS- CoV-2 variants of concern. Importantly, […]
Access to Kidney Transplantation in Minority Populations
Kidney transplantation (KT) is the optimal treatment for end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). It reduces mortality, improves quality of life, and costs less than dialysis. Previous research demonstrated significant disparities in ESKD and its treatment for members of disadvantaged groups [e.g., Hispanic/Latino (HL), American Indians (AI), low income]. Although HL and AI are referred for KT […]
New Mexico IDeA Networks of Biomedical Research Excellence
This project is a continuation of the New Mexico Idea Network of Biomedical Research Excellence (NM- INBRE), a statewide network that promotes biomedical and community-based research and training through scientific research in the following thematic areas: structure and function of biomolecules, cell and organism, pathogens, and population and community health. The network includes nine institutions […]
Effect of Vaping on Lung Immunity
Autophagy is a fundamental homeostatic and metabolic intracellular process operational in all healthy human cells. Autophagy sustains cellular metabolic needs during starvation or growth factor withdrawal, cleanses the cell interior by removing damaged organelles and toxic protein aggregates, and rids cells of endogenous or exogenous promoters of inflammation. Increasingly studied, autophagy broadly affects human health […]
Impact of Phosphaturia on Renal Osteopontin Production and PKD Progression
Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is characterized by the accumulation of numerous renal cysts leading to a progressive decline in kidney function, and frequently culminates in end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Aberrant tubular epithelial cell proliferation, macrophage infiltration, and tubulointerstitial fibrosis are important contributors to PKD progression; however, factors promoting these events remain undetermined. Systemic […]