Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Faculty
Alfred H. Merrill
Smithgall Institute Professor of Molecular Cell Biology
College of Sciences
School of Biology
e-mail: al.merrill@biology.gatech.edu
phone: 404-385-2842
NanoTECH Research Area Affiliations
Research Summary
Research focuses on a category of compounds termed sphingolipids that are important in cell structure, cell-cell communication and signal transduction. Both naturally occurring and synthetic sphingolipids (and analogues) are characterized comprehensively—i.e., using molecular biology, mass spectrometry and other techniques to determine their biophysical properties, cellular uptake and metabolism, and biological activities. These studies are leading to new strategies for disease prevention and treatment, particularly for certain forms of cancer.
