Current Project:
My current work focuses on the Omega-3 fatty acid derived Resolvin D series. Resolvins are highly potent endogenous anti-inflammatory mediators derived from essential fatty acids. Our recent studies indicate that the resolvin family member RvD1 blocks inflammatory responses caused by the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNFα, and aids tissue restoration of salivary epithelium. RvD1 is synthesized by first releasing DHA from membrane phospholipids by PLA2. Then, DHA is transformed to 17S-HpDHA by enzymatic conversion through 12/15-LOX. The final step for RvD1 synthesis is the release of 17S-HpDHA which is then transformed into RvD1 by the action of the enzyme 5-LOX. In my current study, we addressed whether RvD1 synthetic pathways are expressed and functional in mouse submandibular salivary glands.

About Me:
I am a Buffalo, NY native who attended the University at Buffalo for my bachelor’s and my master’s degrees. My bachelor degree focused on pre-health and ecological biology, while my master degree was in evolution, ecology and behavior with a concentration in population genetics of the Caribbean coral Montastraea faveolata. Because of this, I have spent the past few years as a dive bum in the Bahamas as well as the Florida Keys. My transition to oral biology was not as drastic as it may seem as I was prepared for the field via my undergraduate work as well as my genetics research for my masters. When I am not at work trying to rid the world of Sjögren's syndrome, I enjoy cycling, playing with my dog and taking photos (see below). Thank you for visiting my page. If you would like to see some of my work please visit the publications page found on our website.