The Gelb lab studies a number of enzymatic processes of medical importance. We study a class of enzymes called phospholipases A2 that liberate arachidonic acid for the biosynthesis of proinflammatory lipid mediators (prostaglandins, leukotrienes and others). These lipids play important roles in diseases including asthma and arthritis. We also carry out drug discovery efforts to develop new treatments for tropical parasitic diseases (Malaria, African sleeping sickness, Chagas disease and leishmaniasis). The work involves structure-based medicinal chemistry and pre-clinical hit-to-lead drug candidate work. The third area is a combination of enzymology and mass spectrometry to develop new technology for newborn screening of enzyme deficiency diseases. Current focus is to expand newborn screening for lysosomal storage diseases. Techniques used in the Gelb lab include biochemical and tissue culture methods, generation and analysis of knockout mice, medicinal chemistry, and mass spectrometry.
Taking Students: Yes
Available for Rotations Autumn, Winter, Spring, Summer
