Joseph Alcorn
Associate Professor
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
McGovern Medical School
Department of Pediatrics
The research in my laboratory is directed at understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in regulation of pulmonary surfactant protein gene expression by hormones. To reach this goal, I use two aspects of surfactant protein gene regulation by glucocorticoids as models. I am interested in molecular mechanisms by which glucocorticoids increase surfactant protein B (SP-B) mRNA stability. I am also interested in the molecular mechanisms by which glucocorticoids increase transcription of the surfactant protein C (SP-C) gene.
A tutorial in my laboratory will provide experience in all methods of molecular biology, in mRNA manipulation and analysis, and in the study of eucaryotic promoters. The student would also gain knowledge of cell culture techniques, of the culture of primary cells, and in techniques used to make recombinant replication-defective adenoviruses.
McGovern Medical School Faculty
Education & Training
Ph.D. - The University of Texas-Dallas - 1988
Research Info
Extra pulmonary roles of surfactant proteins