Research Director:  Brett Alan Adams, Ph.D.

Position:  Associate Professor of Biology

Education: 

B.S. (with honors) in Zoology (1980) -- Oregon State University

M.S. in Zoology (1982) -- with John Ruben, Oregon State University

Ph.D. in Biological Sciences (1987) -- with Albert F. Bennett, University of California, Irvine

Postdoctoral training (1987 - 93) with Kurt G. Beam, at Colorado State University

Current Research

Our current experiments focus on the signaling properties of AGS1 and Rhes, two closely-related monomeric G proteins that possess the ability to modulate signaling through certain heterotrimeric G proteins.  We use recombinant DNA and transfection methodologies, cell and tissue culture, and electrophysiological techniques to investigate this area.

Recent Peer-Reviewed Publications

Toro-Castillo C., A. Thapliyal, H. Gonzalez-Ochoa, B.A. Adams and U. Meza.  2007.  Muscarinic modulation of CaV2.3 (R-type) calcium channels is antagonized by RGS3 and RGS3T.  American Journal of Physiology (Cell Physiology) 292:C573-580.

Meza, U., A. Thapliyal, R.A. Bannister and B.A. Adams.  2007.  Neurokinin 1 Receptors Trigger Overlapping Stimulation and Inhibition of CaV2.3 (R-type) Calcium Channels.  Molecular Pharmacology 71:284-293.

Thapliyal A, Bannister RA, Hanks C, Adams BA.  2008.  The monomeric G proteins AGS1 and Rhes selectively influence Gi-dependent signaling to modulate N-type (CaV2.2) calcium channels.  Am J Physiol Cell Physiol. 295:C1417-1426.

Positions Available

We currently have openings for PhD students and Postdoctoral Associates.  Please direct all inquiries to Brett Adams (brett@biology.usu.edu).