Laboratory of Dr. Andrew L. Miller

We are studying the role played by calcium ions in a wide range of fundamental biological processes. Calcium signaling is studied through the use of aequorins, a group of bioluminescent proteins. They can either be microinjected into cells or transgenically expressed without disturbing function or development. The pattern of luminescence that is emitted by an aequorin-loaded cell, tissue or organ, reveals changing patterns and levels of free calcium. We are currently studying cytokinesis in frog and fish eggs; cell cycle control in sea urchin and parchment worm eggs; injury and degeneration in squid, fish and mouse neurons, and differentiation in slime molds.