My lab research focuses on megakaryopoiesis, thrombosis, and hemostasis, with a special emphasis on understanding G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR)-mediated platelet activation and thrombus formation. Our recent studies provide novel insights into the regulatory mechanisms that fine-tune platelet responses to vascular injury. Using CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), well-established vascular injury models, and various biochemical approaches, we have demonstrated that GPCR kinases (GRKs) play a critical role in hemostasis by modulating GPCR signaling in platelets. More recently, we identified that a common GRK5 variant, found in 5 million Americans, is associated with reduced GRK5 expression in platelets, heightened platelet activation, and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, including pulmonary embolism and stroke.
Project 1: A common GRK5 polymorphism affects platelets & elevates cardiovascular risk
Our GWAS analysis in humans and findings from platelet studies in Grk5-/- mice provide strong evidence that GRK5 is a critical negative regulator of platelet activation via PAR1. These findings support the proposed model that GRK5 could be manipulated to manage platelet dysfunction in diseases, including VTE and stroke.
Project 2: The regulatory networks that regulate platelet activation
Current studies are investigating novel positive regulators and negative regulators in response to GPCR-coupled agonists using a genome-wide CRISPR-Cas9 screen.
Project 3: GRKs as key regulators of megakaryopoiesis & thrombopoiesis
GRKs are essential regulators of GPCR signaling in megakaryopoiesis and thrombopoiesis. Insights gained will provide a molecular framework for selectively targeting GRK-mediated pathways, potentially opening new avenues for therapeutic interventions to modulate platelet production in patients with various acquired and inherited platelet disorders.