Jon Houtman

Jon Houtman, PhD is a Professor of Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Iowa. He also holds a secondary appointment as Professor of Internal Medicine - Immunology. Dr. Houtman serves as Vice-Chair in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology and Associate Director for Career Enhancement at the Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Education:

• BA in Biology and Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Morris
• PhD in Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Wisconsin-Madison
• Postdoctoral Fellow in Molecular Immunology, National Cancer Institute/NIH/DHHS

Dr. Houtman's research focuses on T cell activation mechanisms through the T cell receptor (TCR), particularly examining LAT signaling complex formation and GRB2 regulation. His lab also investigates glycerol monolaurate (GML) as an immunomodulatory agent with potential applications in autoimmune diseases and cancer.

The lab's work on GML explores its effects on membrane complex disruption, mitochondrial suppression, and metabolic flux in T cells. Ongoing projects include characterizing GRB2's role in LAT oligomerization and developing GML derivatives with improved pharmacological properties. Research spans immunology, molecular biology, and translational applications in cancer and cardiovascular diseases.

Labs and Teams:

• Human Immunology Core (Faculty Director)
• Affiliated with Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center
• Center for Immunology and Immune-based Diseases
• Institute for Clinical and Translational Science