James P. Luyendyk, Ph.D.

 

Ph.D., Michigan State University, 2004

Research Interests

Interests of the laboratory are primarily related to mechanisms of liver inflammation and fibrosis. In particular, the lab focuses on the role of coagulation cascade activation and coagulation protease signaling in models of chronic cholestasis and fatty liver disease.  Tissue factor (TF) is the principal initiator of the coagulation cascade and plays a role in several biological processes including hemostasis, thrombosis, inflammation, angiogenesis and development. However, few studies have examined the role of TF in liver disease.  Understanding the mechanisms whereby TF expression and activity is regulated in the liver may reveal novel strategies to reduce pathologic inflammation and liver fibrosis.

We strive to incorporate in vivo and cell culture approaches as well as genetic and pharmacologic strategies to understand the regulation and contribution of coagulation in models of liver disease. Currently, projects in the laboratory are broadly related to:

1) Mechanisms of chronic xenobiotic-induced liver inflammation and fibrosis

- Studies are ongoing to evaluate the role of TF and protease activated receptors (PARs) in liver inflammation and fibrosis

- We have a developing interest in how coagulation proteases contribute to fibrogenic gene expression in bile duct epithelial cells

2) Mechanisms of inflammation and fibrosis induced by fatty liver disease

- Studies are ongoing to elucidate how triglyceride accumulation increases liver TF activity

- Studies are ongoing to evaluate the relative contribution of fibrin clots and protease signaling in the pathogenesis of steatohepatitis

Selected Publications

Search for Dr. Luyendyk’s publications using Pubmed.

Contact Information

James Luyendyk, Ph.D.
Adjunct Assistant Professor
Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutics
E-mail address: jluyendyk@kumc.edu

Updated 4/6/12