Dr. John White

The laboratory has focused since its inception on various aspects of regulation of gene expression. Much of the work centers on the role of nuclear receptors in controlling gene transcription. The lab has been interested in the molecular mechanisms of action of estrogen receptors (ERs) for several years, and has identified novel coregulatory factors that control the nuclear and extra-nuclear functions actions of ERs and other nuclear receptors. The laboratory is also studying the genomics of nuclear receptor action. The lab is analyzing the potential roles of target genes of the vitamin D3 receptor in controlling the growth of cancer cells. We have identified almost 200 vitamin D3 target genes in squamous carcinoma cells by microarray analysis, and are determining the functions of key genes in regulation of cellular growth and differentiation.