Research

Rebecca Jackson, MD

Rebecca Jackson, MD, is the principal investigator for “Genome Wide Association Study to Identify Genetic Components of Hip Fracture,” a study funded by a $4.1 million grant from the National Institutes of Health. In collaboration with researchers at the University of Washington and the Translational Genomics Research Institute in Arizona, Jackson and colleagues are identifying genetic differences among women who experience hip fractures and those who do not. Their findings may enable doctors to tailor treatments to patients based on genetic characteristics and the environmental and behavioral aspects of their lives.

Electra Paskett, PhD, MSPH

Paskett’s research program, nationally recognized for its work in cancer health disparities, is leading a large study among women in Appalachian Ohio to improve their use of Pap tests and their acceptance of the human papilliomavirus (HPV) vaccine. Paskett and her team are examining how social factors and environmental conditions influence receipt of these tests. This is part of an initiative to understand why high rates of cervical cancer incidence and mortality are observed in this region.

Paskett’s research program also is testing a lyphedema-prevention program among women who receive full axillary node dissection as part of their treatment for breast cancer. Funded by the Lance Armstrong Foundation and the Susan G. Komen Foundation, this study – the first of its kind – is being conducted among like institutions across the nation.

Douglas Kniss, PhD

Douglas Kniss, PhD, and his team seek to understand the cellular and molecular pathophysiology of pregnancy complications involving the placenta. Specifically, they are examining the role of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) induction by proinflammatory cytokines and growth factors that trigger the untimely onset of uterine contractions and cervical dilation. Most recently, they have been using in vitro and in vivo models to investigate the interaction of the transcription factors NFkB and PPAR-g in driving the COX-2 gene and leading to exuberant prostaglandin production.

Kniss and his team are also searching for polymorphisms in several target genes thought to be involved in some pregnancy complications. In addition, his laboratory is collaborating with the Department of Chemical Engineering at Ohio State to study the influence of three-dimensional culture using a bioreactor to expand hematopoietic and tissue progenitor stem cells and to examine their biology.