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San Antonio Medical Foundation

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The proposed research investigates novel molecular targets and processes that promise to minimize brain damage after cerebral ischemic stroke (CIS) and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Current therapeutic strategies to combat acute brain injuries have been largely unsuccessful. We discovered that the Ca2+ dependent phosphatase calcineurin (CN) can bind to PERK, a stress sensor in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), increases its auto-phosphorylation and enhance a cellular process called the Unfolded Protein Response (UPR).

UT Health San Antonio
Lechleiter, James D

Folate, as part of the one carbon cycle, is critical for the de novo synthesis of S-adenosyl methionine (SAM). SAM, in turn, provides the methyl group for DNA methylation, a key mode of epigenetic regulation. Studies have shown that manipulation of folate levels during gestation alters the epigenetic status of genes, and that treatment with methyl donors in adulthood reverses DNA methylation changes. Given the effect of folate levels on DNA methylation, it is not surprising that dietary folate status influences the risk for several cancers. Folate is also essential for cell proliferation.

UT Health San Antonio
O'keefe, Denise Susan