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Research Interests:
The main focus of Dr. DeFrances' research is PI3K signaling mechanisms in hepatocytes. She explores regulation of this signaling pathway at the molecular level using in vivo and in vitro models including overexpressing and null mouse models. Emphasis is also placed on unraveling the role of PI3K signaling in normal and neoplastic human and rodent liver. Dr. DeFrances' laboratory also explores tyrosine kinase pathways in liver growth, regeneration and neoplasia.
Selected Publications:
Michalopoulos GK, DeFrances M. Liver regeneration. Adv Biochem Eng Biotechnol. 2005;93:101-34. Review.
Wang, X. DeFrances, M.C., Dai, Y. Bell, A., Michalopoulos G.K. and R. Zarnegar (2002). A novel mechanism of cell survival: sequestration of the death receptor Fas by direct physical association with the tyrosine kinase receptor Met. Molecular Cell 9:411-422.
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