Patrick Rowe

Seventh Year Student, 2007-2008

Email address: prowe@wfubmc.edu

Education:

BS (Biology) 2000, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Advisor: Janice D. Wagner, D.V.M., Ph.D.

Current Research:

My lab has found that diabetic monkeys develop atherosclerosis at an accelerated rate, similar to humans with type 1 diabetes.    Data from this same study showed increased markers of protein oxidation due to hydroxyl radicals in the diabetic arteries.  Since it is widely believed that oxidative stress is a major factor in development of atherosclerosis, we are investigating the mechanisms responsible for production of this harmful radical with diabetes.  Specifically, we would like to see if iron regulatory pathways are altered with diabetes since free iron is a catalyst for hydroxyl radical production.