Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

puzzel pieces, autism
January 29, 2015

Altered dopamine signaling may offer a clue to autism

Newly discovered genetic variations linked to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) disrupt the function of the dopamine transporter, suggesting that altered dopamine signaling contributes to this common developmental condition, according to a Vanderbilt University-led research team.

By Bill Snyder
hamburger and fries
June 2, 2014

Vanderbilt study supports notion ‘You are what you eat’

An international research group led by Vanderbilt University scientists has shown for the first time that a lipid, or fat molecule, can regulate “psychostimulant” behaviors by interacting with a brain protein.

By Bill Snyder
Insulin in vials
April 10, 2014

Matrix remodeling and insulin resistance

The extracellular matrix that surrounds cells plays a role in the development of insulin resistance.

By Will Fry
December 12, 2013

Proton transfer powers multidrug resistance: study

Vanderbilt University researchers and their Belgian colleagues have discovered the mechanism behind a multidrug transporter. Their findings, posted this week by Nature Chemical Biology, could lead to new treatments for multidrug resistant bacterial infections.

By VUMC News and Communications
Insulin in vials
October 16, 2013

Relaxin combats insulin resistance

The hormone relaxin may offer a novel approach for treating diet-induced insulin resistance.

By Leigh MacMillan
September 19, 2013

Transporter linked to autism risk

Vanderbilt University investigators for the first time have linked a non-inherited, de novo mutation in the dopamine transporter to autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

By Bill Snyder
August 9, 2013

‘Yo-yo dieting’ inflames fat tissue

Gaining and losing weight during “yo-yo dieting” may contribute to an exaggerated immune response in fat tissue that increases metabolic dysfunction more than steady weight gain alone.
By Leigh MacMillan
June 6, 2013

Matrix member key to insulin resistance

A component of the extracellular matrix that surrounds cells plays a role in insulin resistance and may be a good therapeutic target.
By Leigh MacMillan
January 20, 2012

Digestive disease research bolstered by grant renewal

The Vanderbilt Digestive Disease Research Center celebrates its 10th anniversary this year with a second five-year renewal of its federal research grant.
By Bill Snyder