BLRD Research Career Scientist Award Application

The applicant is a PhD basic scientist who runs a research program aimed at understanding how the autonomic, metabolism and cardiovascular functions are regulated. I am especially focused on identifying the cellular and molecular processes and circuits that underlie the control of the autonomic nervous system activity, energy homeostasis and blood pressure by the brain. Studies in the laboratory are also directed towards uncovering how these pathways and neuronal circuits are dysregulated in disease conditions such as obesity and hypertension, which are major causes of morbidity and mortality in the VA population. Detailed understanding of the processes involved in metabolic and cardiovascular regulation in health and disease is necessary to develop new treatments for complex disorders such obesity and associated diseases. We plan to build on our previous work to extend our studies to identify new molecular and neuronal processes underlying metabolic and cardiovascular regulation and their pathophysiological role in obesity. We will focus on understanding the mechanisms mediating autonomic, metabolic and cardiovascular control by mTORC1 signaling. We will also investigate the mechanisms involved in autonomic, metabolic and cardiovascular regulation by a protein complex called the BBSome. New insights into the physiological and pathophysiological role of mTORC1 and the BBSome will inform the feasibility of targeting these molecular mechanisms for the treatment of obesity and hypertension. I will also continue training the next generation of biomedical researchers by mentoring and guiding young scientists, both basic and clinical, to maximize their career potential as biomedical investigators. This is crucial to ensure a bright future for medical advances that can improve the health and lives of the Veterans. In addition, I will continue my commitment to serve the VA, affiliated University of Iowa, and the national and international scientific community by participation in teaching, committee service, and organization of research initiatives and events.