Research, which ranges from the molecular genetic level to clinical and epidemiologic questions, aims to identify the antigens of importance for immunity to Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Mediterranean spotted fever, North Asian tick typhus, and human ehrlichiosis. Laboratories are also examining the molecular mechanisms of hepatitis B virus replication and oncogenesis, as well as flavivirus attenuation and vaccine development. Bacterial invasion and the host cell response are also being examined. The Center for Tropical Diseases has been established at the University of Texas Medical Branch to research infectious diseases found in tropical countries. Pathobiology research centers on the theme of cellular mechanisms of disease, including processes of cancer progression, cellular injury, and the inflammatory responses that are especially relevant to diseases involving the cardiovascular, renal, and nervous systems.
Researchers examine mechanisms for the adverse effects of environmental toxicants and drugs.
Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies identify drug and chemical distribution, metabolism, and excretion as well as molecular interactions and biochemical responses to these interactions. Research on liver and biliary tract diseases examines mechanisms by which nutritional status and phase II enzymes, e.g., glutathione transferase, modulate the acute hepatotoxic and cholestatic effects of environmental pollutants. Cardiovascular injury research uses in vivo and in vitro experimental models to identify molecular events that occur during injury to the heart and blood vessels. Toxicants studied include catecholamines, allylamine, and antitumor agents of clinical importance. Nervous system research examines the role of macrophage growth factors in the control of axon repair and remyelination and the effects of environmental neurotoxins on growth factor expression in the developing brain.