معرفی
Jianhang Jia, PhD, is a Professor in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry at the University of Kentucky, with a secondary affiliation at the Markey Cancer Center. His research is centered on the molecular mechanisms of Hedgehog (Hh) signaling, a critical pathway in development, cancer, and metabolism.
- Education:
- Ph.D., Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 2000
- Postdoctoral Training, UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, 2005
Dr. Jia’s research investigates how the Hh signaling pathway is regulated, particularly focusing on the activation of Smoothened (Smo) and the translation of Hh gradients into differential gene expression. His work also explores the role of neurotensin in obesity and intestinal stem cell regulation. His research bridges developmental biology, cancer, and metabolic disorders, making significant contributions to understanding disease mechanisms.
The recent publications highlight a strong trend in both Hedgehog signaling and metabolic regulation. His work spans molecular mechanisms of Smo activation, trafficking, and phosphorylation, as well as the physiological impact of neurotensin in obesity and intestinal homeostasis. These studies employ biochemical, genetic, and cell biological approaches across model systems including Drosophila and mammalian cells.
- Scientific Awards:
- Publication in Nature (2016) on neurotensin's essential role in diet-induced obesity, a high-impact contribution to metabolic research
Dr. Jia has led and collaborated on numerous research projects, particularly in the areas of cancer signaling and metabolism. His lab likely mentors graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, though specific names are not listed. He has been involved in multi-investigator grants, especially those related to cancer and metabolic disease, often in collaboration with researchers like B. Mark Evers and Tianyan Gao.
His research is conducted within the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry and leverages resources at the Markey Cancer Center, suggesting an active lab environment with access to shared facilities for molecular, cellular, and imaging studies.
