Edward
J. Macarak, Ph.D.
macarak@biochem.dental.upenn.edu
Professor of Anatomy
and Histology, School of Dental Medicine;
Professor of Bioengineering
A.B., Biology, Chemistry
Hamilton College, 1966
M.S., Biology, University
of Pennsylvania, 1968
Ph.D., Biology University
of Pennsylvania, 1973
Research Interests
Our laboratory studies
genes that are mechanically sensitive and uniquely activated by
forces. Using cell models of vascular endothelium and smooth muscle,
vascular cell response to stretch and the identification of genes
that uniquely respond when cells are mechanically deformed is being
carried out. An example of such a gene is the Platelet Activation
Factor receptor(PAFr) whose expression is increased in response
to mechanical stretch.
Additional models of
mechanically sensitive tissues that are currently being studied
include the urinary bladder and the periodontal ligament. We are
investigating using targeted PCR based techniques, extracellular
matrix gene activation and the role of specific transcription factors
in mediating alteration in gene expression. An additional area of
interest is the role of a chemically engineered heparin mimic, Beta
Cyclodestrix Sulfate (BCDS). The goal of these studies is to understand
the mechanism by which simple alterations in the chemical structure
of BCDS can alter its angiostatic or angiogenic properties.
Selected Publications
An analysis of time-dependent
changes in intracellular calcium concentration in endothelial cells
in culture induced by mechanical stimulation. Journal of Biomechanical
Engineering. 115:160-168, 1993.
Strain Measurements
in Cultured Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells Subjected to Mechanical
Deformation. Annals of Biomedical Engineering Volume 22 Issue
1, 14-22, January/February 1994.
Role of type III collagen
in bladder filling. Neurology and Urodynamics, 17:135-145,
1998.
Mechanical stretch induces
platelet activating factor receptor gene expression through NF-kB
transcription factor. J. Molecular and Cellular Cardiology,
Volume 13, (in press) July, 1999.
Bioengineering
| Penn Engineering Home
| Penn Home |
City of Philadelphia
Faculty
& Staff |
Graduate Program |
Undergraduate Program |
Research
| Labs & Organizations
| Events
Course
Listings
|
BE Links
| Site Index |
Admission
| Employment
|
