Laura R. McCabe, Ph.D.

 

Professor of Physiology and Radiology, received her undergraduate degree in Biology in 1986 from the University of Chicago. She continued her studies, focusing on intestinal biology, and in 1991 she received her Ph.D. from the University of Chicago. She did her postdoctoral training at University of Massachusetts Medical Center, where she studied the molecular regulation of bone cell function. In 1996 she joined the faculty at Michigan State University.

Her current research focuses on understanding mechanisms regulating bone cell differentiation and bone formation. Her research incorporates several models of altered bone formation including: spaceflight/unloading (where bone loss occurs as a result of decreased skeletal loading), diabetes type I (where bone loss that is associated with decreased osteoblast function), and bone fracture/implant healing. Identified changes in intracellular signaling and gene regulation are being targeted as potential treatments to maintain osteoblast function and healthy bones.