Patricia Rockwell

Patricia Rockwell is a Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Hunter College, City University of New York (CUNY), within the School of Arts and Sciences. Her research focuses on signal transduction pathways, particularly those involving vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its neuroprotective properties. She oversees a BA/MA program in Biology with Specialization in Biotechnology and maintains an active research laboratory.

Dr. Rockwell received her BSc from Gwynedd Mercy in 1969, followed by an MSc from Wright State University in 1972. She earned her PhD from Hunter College in 1986 and completed postdoctoral training at Columbia University School of Physicians and Surgeons from 1986-1990.

Rockwell's research program centers on delineating signaling pathways that protect against neuronal cell loss, with a particular focus on VEGF-mediated neuroprotection. Her laboratory investigates how VEGF regulates survival pathways in neuronal cells subjected to harmful stimuli, identifying both protective mechanisms and those suppressed to prevent cell death. This work has significant implications for developing therapeutic strategies against neurodegenerative disorders.

Analysis of Dr. Rockwell's publication record reveals a consistent focus on neuronal cell signaling, particularly examining VEGF receptor (VEGFR2) pathways and their role in neuroprotection. Her research spans multiple intersecting fields including oxidative stress, mitochondrial function, proteasome activity, and cell death mechanisms. Over time, her work has evolved from examining basic signaling mechanisms to exploring their therapeutic potential for neurodegenerative conditions.

Dr. Rockwell has made significant contributions through numerous peer-reviewed publications and several patents related to VEGF receptors and cancer therapeutics. Her patent portfolio includes methods for reducing tumor growth with VEGF receptor antibodies combined with radiation and chemotherapy, as well as various antibody-based approaches targeting VEGF signaling pathways.

In addition to her research, Dr. Rockwell oversees a BA/MA program in Biology with Specialization in Biotechnology, teaching a Biotechnology Seminar and Workshop that prepares students for careers in biotechnology through hands-on training in recombinant DNA techniques. Her curriculum draws from her previous industry experience in cancer therapeutics, particularly focused on tyrosine kinase receptor-targeted drugs.

Dr. Rockwell leads the Rockwell Lab, which maintains active research programs examining neuronal cell survival pathways. Her laboratory utilizes both in vitro and in vivo model systems to investigate neuronal cell stress responses, with particular expertise in VEGF signaling pathways and their implications for neurodegenerative disease.