Clemmons Lab

The activity of a small protein found in both the circulation and in the fluid that surrounds the cells and tissues called insulin-like growth factor -I (IGF-I)has been implicated in the progression of a number of diseases including atherosclerosis, cancer and retinopathy. These diseases are characterized by aberrant proliferation and migration of various cell types. We are particularly interested in the ability of IGF-I to stimulate smooth muscle and endothelial cell migration and proliferation contributing to the progression of these diseases. Our recent studies have shown that the responsiveness of these cells to IGF-I is determined, not only by the activation of the IGF-I receptor itself but also by three other transmembrane proteins, including the alphaVbeta3 integrin and two cell to cell adhesion molecules, integrin associated protein, and SHPS-1. The overall goal of the research undertaken in our laboratory is to understand the molecular cross talk between the IGF-IR and these three other proteins.

The long term goal of our work is to identify new molecular therapeutic targets that would allow the specific regulation of IGF-I action in smooth muscle and endothelial cells to limit dysregulation of cell growth and proliferation without disrupting its vital action in other parts of the body.