Distinguished Lecture Series
Integrative Bioengineering: Unraveling Cross-Family Signaling for Vascular Health and Oxytocin Receptor Dynamics to Improve Labor and Delivery
Princess Imoukhuede, Ph.D.
Professor and Chair
University of Washington Bioengineering
Monday, October 28, 2024
GP1002
12:00pm – 12:50pm
Abstract: Dysregulated signaling underlies many complex disorders, including cancers and complications in labor and delivery. Our research employs bioengineering tools, such as computational modeling and quantitative receptor measurements, to investigate binding and signaling mechanisms that aim to improve diagnosis and treatment strategies. This presentation highlights key findings in vascular biology and women’s health.
Vascular Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, is vital for organ development and repair. While therapeutic strategies targeting angiogenesis yield temporary improvements in conditions like obesity and cancer, they often lead to subsequent disease progression. Our discovery of VEGF-PDGFR interactions challenges the traditional focus on uni-family ligand- receptor binding and prompts an exploration of cross-family signaling. We have identified PDGFs that induce endothelial proliferation and migration, and we observed high-affinity hetero- oligomerization between VEGF-A and several PDGFs. These insights can inform innovative therapeutic strategies targeting angiogenesis in tumors and cardiovascular diseases.
Oxytocin (OXT) is commonly used to initiate labor, but prolonged exposure can reduce oxytocin receptor responsiveness, increasing the risk of uterine rupture and other complications. By combining the quantitative characterization of OXT receptors with computational modeling, we enhance our understanding of variability in OXT responsiveness. We developed a method to quantify OXT receptor levels and identified genetic variants that significantly alter OXT receptor function, paving the way for personalized oxytocin dosing strategies. Our data-driven model predicts OXT binding dynamics and optimizes dosing based on individual genetic profiles.
Additionally, we have identified pharmacological chaperones that enhance OXT responsiveness and may improve clinical outcomes. This research lays the groundwork for precision interventions in labor and broader biomedical applications.
Biography: Dr. Imoukhuede is a distinguished bioengineer renowned for her groundbreaking research on blood vessels and their regulation. She holds an SB in Chemical Engineering from MIT and a Ph.D. in Bioengineering from Caltech, where she made history as the first African-American woman to receive this degree.
Throughout her academic career, Dr. Imoukhuede has been recognized for her research and her commitment to social responsibility. She has received numerous awards and professional development grants, including a United Negro College Fund/Merck Fellowship. She has also served on the board of the Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES) and the nominations committee of the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering (AIMBE) and has been inducted as a Fellow in both.
Currently, Dr. Imoukhuede is the Hunter and Dorothy Simpson Endowed Chair and Professor of Bioengineering at the University of Washington. Her research focuses on blood vessel formation and the administration of synthetic oxytocin during labor and delivery. Her contributions to the field have earned her numerous honors, including the BMES 2021 Mid-Career Award, a National Science Foundation CAREER Award, and an AIMBE Professional Impact Award for Diversity Equity and Inclusion.
For a zoom link please contact Kate Harrison at kharrison@wpi.edu