معرفی
Dr. Maura Porta is an Assistant Professor of Physiology at Midwestern University, holding appointments across multiple colleges including the College of Graduate Studies - Illinois, Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, and College of Pharmacy. She earned her Ph.D. in Cell and Molecular Physiology from Loyola University Chicago (2006) and completed postdoctoral training at Midwestern University. Her research focuses on epigenetic changes in uterine smooth muscle post-pregnancy and calcium signaling mechanisms in muscle tissues. She teaches courses in Endocrinology, Reproductive Physiology, and Human Physiology across dental, medical, and biomedical science programs.
Education:
- Ph.D. in Cell and Molecular Physiology, Loyola University Chicago, 2006
- Laurea Degree (B.A./M.A. equivalent) in Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Genova, Italy, 2000
Research Interests: Dr. Porta’s primary work investigates how pregnancy induces lasting epigenetic modifications in uterine myometrium, affecting contractility and hormonal responses. Her lab combines motility studies, molecular biology, and epigenetic analyses on rat models. A suspended project on ryanodine receptors’ role in cardiac muscle contraction may resume. This research bridges reproductive physiology and translational medicine, aiming to improve pregnancy-related healthcare.
Teaching & Advising: She directs courses in endocrine systems, physiology, and teaching electives for osteopathic, dental, and biomedical students. She actively advises students interested in her research program, fostering biomedical science engagement.
Affiliations: Her primary department is Physiology, contributing to education across osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, physical therapy, and biomedical science programs.
