Gary Eitzen

Dr. Gary Eitzen is a Professor in the Department of Cell Biology within the Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry at the University of Alberta. His research focuses on small GTPase-mediated regulation of exocytosis in immune and epithelial cells, with significant implications for allergic diseases and chronic lung conditions.

Research Interests:

• Small GTPase (Rab and Rho family) signaling in exocytosis
• Mast cell and neutrophil degranulation in inflammation
• Rho protein regulation in bronchial epithelial cells
• Mechanisms of cytokine upregulation in asthma and COPD
• Targeting exocytosis for anti-inflammatory therapies

Recent Research Trends: His recent publications (2014–2022) highlight a sustained focus on Rho GTPase signaling, particularly Rac1 and FGD5, in inflammatory cell exocytosis and endothelial angiogenesis. His work integrates molecular cell biology, live imaging, and pharmacological intervention to dissect signaling pathways involved in immune response and cellular secretion.

Scientific Contributions:

• Elucidated roles of Rac1 and Rac2 in mast cell exocytosis
• Demonstrated Rho protein involvement in cytokine production in lung epithelial cells
• Identified FGD5 as a Rac1-specific GEF and its inhibition mechanism
• Contributed to understanding microtubule and motor protein roles in granule trafficking

Advising and Research Team: Dr. Eitzen actively mentors graduate students and trainees, including Rowayna Shouib, Eric Zhang, Judeah Negre, and Bonny Wu. His laboratory maintains active projects in immune cell signaling and epithelial inflammation. While specific grants are not listed, his consistent publication output suggests ongoing research funding.

Laboratory: His lab is located in the Medical Sciences Building (Room 5-23) at the University of of Alberta, equipped for advanced cell biological and immunological research.