Detecting Serine 515,518-phosphorylated JAK1, a novel mechanism for the anti-inflammatory effects of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)

If unchecked, defective functioning of so-called “endothelial cells” (ECs) that line blood vessels results in cardiovascular disease. For example, the narrowing of the arteries responsible for heart disease is caused by chemicals called “cytokines” which trigger an inflammatory response in ECs by activating a critical intracellular “JAK-STAT” pathway. This then turns-on genes responsible for inflammation and defective function. Our studies have identified a process by which a protein called “AMPK” directly inhibits one of the JAKs. By examining how this pathway works, the student will help us evaluate its usefulness as a target for reducing inflammation in cardiovascular disease.