Amy Millsap

Amy Millsap is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, within the College of Humanities and Sciences. She holds the Amy LeVesconte Professorship in Chemistry and teaches courses such as Organic Chemistry I & II, General Chemistry II, and Chemistry Seminar - Capstone III. Her research focuses on DNA damage caused by dietary and endogenous mutagens, with a strong emphasis on translesion synthesis mechanisms.

Research Interests:
Dr. Millsap's work lies at the intersection of bio-organic chemistry, toxicology, and chemical biology. She investigates how mutagenic DNA adducts, particularly those derived from dietary compounds like IQ and endogenous agents like methylglyoxal, are processed by human DNA polymerases. Her research provides insight into error-free and mutagenic bypass mechanisms, contributing to understanding carcinogenesis at the molecular level. These studies involve detailed biochemical analysis, structural characterization, and cellular models of DNA replication.

Publication Trends:
Her recent publications demonstrate a consistent focus on DNA lesion bypass, particularly involving bulky adducts formed by heterocyclic amines and reactive carbonyl species. The work combines organic synthesis, molecular biology, and analytical techniques to dissect polymerase specificity and fidelity. Key themes include the roles of Y-family and B-family DNA polymerases in mutagenesis, crosslink characterization, and implications for genomic stability.

• Scientific Awards:
• Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology Fellowship (2009–2012)

Advising and Grants:
While no formal advisees are listed, Dr. Millsap has conducted independent and collaborative research, particularly during her postdoctoral fellowship at Vanderbilt. She has not listed current external grants, but her prior fellowship support indicates a strong foundation in competitive funding. Her teaching responsibilities include mentoring students in capstone research experiences.

Labs and Research Teams:
Although specific lab or team names are not mentioned in the text, her research has been conducted in collaboration with prominent scientists such as Carmelo J. Rizzo and Ashis K. Basu, suggesting active participation in a chemical biology research group. At UMHB, she likely maintains an undergraduate-focused research lab involving student researchers in biochemical and toxicological projects.