The signaling functions of the Ras family G protein R-Ras. We identified RLIP76 as a novel R-Ras effector protein in its effects in cell spreading and we are taking several approaches to understand how a R-Ras/RLIP76 signaling complex regulates cell motility.
The contributions of Ras proteins to downstream signaling events and their effects on intracellular vesicle trafficking. We have found that R-Ras and RLIP76 regulate downstream activation of the pro-migratory small G protein Arf6, and we are currently studying the relationships of this pathway to effects of R-Ras in intracellular vesicle trafficking and its roles in cell motility.
Biological functions of R-Ras and RLIP76. We are currently investigating roles for this migration signaling complex in the biology of cells of the vessel wall, such as angiogenesis and in endothelial responses to acute vascular injury.
The roles of Ras signaling in the cell biology, physiology and pathophysiology of platelets. Ras effectors such as PI3-kinase and downstream signaling targets including ERK/MAP kinase are essential for platelet responses to agonist stimulation leading to platelet aggregation and thereby affecting hemostasis/thrombosis. We are actively investigating the contributions of Ras G proteins as well as scaffolding molecules in the Ras pathway in platelet functional responses.
