Studies in the Caron Lab are focused on elucidating unique G protein-coupled receptor pathways that are important for the development and function of the cardiovascular system. Using a variety of gene-targeted animal models in conjunction with state-of-the-art聽in vitro聽cell biological systems, we have discovered fundamental roles for several secretin- and chemokine-family receptors in cardiovascular development and disease. Much of our recent work has focused on the pivotal roles that RAMPs (receptor activity-modifying proteins) play in controlling receptor function, cellular signaling, and physiology. The importance of the RAMP-receptor interaction is best exemplified by our work centered on the small blood protein, adrenomedullin 鈥� a potent lymphangiogenic vasodilator that serves as a strong prognostic indicator for many disease conditions.
