Ruben D. Ramirez

Ruben D. Ramirez is an Assistant Professor of Instruction in the Department of Biological Sciences at The University of Texas at Dallas, part of the School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. He holds an M.D. from Universidad A. de Nuevo León, Mexico (1980) and a Ph.D. in Cell Regulation from UT Southwestern Medical Center (1999). His career spans academic research, medical practice, and military service.

• Ph.D. - Cell Regulation, UT Southwestern Medical Center (1999)
• B.S. - Biology, UT San Antonio (1993)
• Certificate - Optical Lab Tech, Ft. Fitzsimmons/Regis College (1985)
• M.D. - Medicine, Universidad A. de Nuevo León, Mexico (1980)
• B.S. - Science, Colegio "Justo Sierra", Mexico (1973)

Dr. Ramirez's research centers on cell biology, molecular biology, and cancer biology, with a focus on mammalian cell culture, protein biochemistry, gene expression, and mechanisms of aging and senescence. He has developed expertise in telomere biology (TRF and TRAP assays), organotypic culture models, and epithelial cell systems, particularly in skin, esophagus, and lung. His work investigates how cellular processes like proliferation, adhesion, and transformation contribute to cancer progression.

His recent publications highlight research in epithelial carcinogenesis, Barrett’s esophagus, oncogene expression, and telomere dynamics. Collaborating with leading scientists like John W. Shay and Rhonda F. Souza, he has contributed to in vitro models of cancer progression and molecular characterization of esophageal tissues. His work bridges basic science with clinical relevance, particularly in understanding how chronic conditions like GERD impact cellular aging.

Notable scientific contributions include:

• Development of immortalized Barrett’s cell lines (BAR-T)
• Studies on acid-induced anti-proliferative effects in Barrett’s epithelium
• Modeling invasive epithelium using H-Ras in skin equivalents
• Linking GERD to telomere shortening in esophageal cells

Dr. Ramirez has secured research funding for projects such as In Vitro Models of Cancer Progression Using Organotypic Cultures and Histological and Molecular Characterization of Esophageal Squamous Epithelium from Barrett's Esophagus. While no formal students are listed, his role in pre-medical education at UT Dallas suggests significant mentorship in undergraduate research and professional preparation. He previously held research and faculty positions at UT Southwestern Medical Center and Dallas VA Medical Center, where he contributed to both research and instruction. His background as a family physician and U.S. Army sergeant adds unique dimensions to his academic profile.