Tom Cooper

Dr. Tom Cooper is a Professor at the Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine. His lab investigates alternative splicing and its role in myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) and other neuromuscular disorders, focusing on RNA-binding proteins like MBNL and CELF.

• Key Research Areas:
  • Alternative Splicing Mechanisms
  • RNA Toxicity in DM1
  • Mouse Models for Pathogenesis
  • Therapeutic Development
• Training Programs:
  • Development, Disease Models & Therapeutics
  • Genetics & Genomics
  • Chemical, Physical & Structural Biology

Scientific Awards:

• Steinert Award (2022)
• Diana Brown Memorial BRASS Mentor of the Year (2022)

Recent Publications highlight discoveries in RNA foci modification via HSP90, microtubule regulation by Map4 splice variants, and MBNL protein compensation in DM1 models. His work bridges mechanistic RNA biology to translational therapeutics.

Lab Environment emphasizes collaboration, weekly seminars, and partnerships with institutions in the Texas Medical Center, including MD Anderson, Rice University, and Houston Methodist.