TREBAK LABORATORY

We investigate calcium signaling during disease.

The Trebak lab currently studies the molecular mechanisms of cellular Ca2+ signaling at the interface of endoplasmic reticulum (ER), plasma membrane (PM) and mitochondria. The lab’s goal is to enhance our understanding of the molecular composition and physiological functions of cellular signaling microdomains that are of major significance to human disease, so we might be able to target these mechanisms for the purpose of therapy. The Trebak lab has defined the molecular mechanisms of activation and regulation of Ca2+ signals mediated by TRP and ORAI channels in epithelial, immune, endothelial and smooth muscle cells. The laboratory combines investigations of the molecular mechanisms of activation and regulation of ion channels with in vivo animal studies that determine the contribution of channel dysfunction to airway and cardiovascular pathology and cancer progression.