Attend the AIMRC Seminar with Dr. Brian Cunniff!

If you're intrigued by the hidden dynamics of cellular function, mark your calendars! The Arkansas Integrative Metabolic Research Center (AIMRC) invites you to a compelling seminar featuring Dr. Brian Cunniff, an esteemed assistant professor of pathology and laboratory medicine.

Discover How Mitochondrial Positioning Affects Gene Expression

Scheduled for 10:45 a.m. on Wednesday, September 17, in BELL 2267, Dr. Cunniff will reveal groundbreaking insights on how the positioning of mitochondria within cells can dramatically influence gene-expression patterns.

The Role of Miro1 in Cellular Signaling

Historically underestimated, mitochondria are essential not just for energy production but also for localized signaling. Dr. Cunniff's research spotlights Miro1, a protein crucial for attaching mitochondria to microtubule motor proteins that enable their movement. When Miro1 is absent in mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs), the mitochondria end up stuck in the perinuclear space, wreaking havoc on cellular signaling gradients.

Stunning Results: Slower Growth and Migration with Mitochondrial Malfunction

His studies reveal that Miro1-deficient MEFs exhibit slower growth and migration rates and suffer from significant cell cycle issues compared to their counterparts that either express Miro1 or have been genetically modified to reintroduce it. Dr. Cunniff led a pioneering RNA sequencing project that unearthed key genes linked to MAP Kinase signaling, crucial for cell proliferation and migration.

What’s at Stake: The Impact of ERK1/2 Phosphorylation

A remarkable finding from his lab is the temporal and spatial elevation in ERK1/2 phosphorylation following serum stimulation in the Miro1-deficient cells. It turns out that these cells also exhibit increased oxidation status of ERK1/2, a factor that may explain their observed growth and proliferation defects.

Meet Dr. Cunniff: A Leader in Mitochondrial Research

Dr. Cunniff brings a wealth of experience from his Ph.D. work at the University of Vermont and prestigious postdoctoral training at institutions like Harvard Medical School. Since joining the University of Vermont in 2017, he has spearheaded an industry-funded research program that is pioneering redox-dependent therapies for malignant mesothelioma, currently making waves in phase 2 clinical trials.

Join Us for this Insightful Event!

This seminar represents a unique opportunity to delve into the critical roles of mitochondrial function in cellular processes. Don’t miss your chance to gain insights from cutting-edge research!

For More Information

For additional details, feel free to reach out to Kimberley Fuller at [email protected]. This event is made possible by NIGMS of the National Institutes of Health, further emphasizing the significance of this research.