RHOADS, Robert E., Ph.D.
Biochemistry Cancer Center Molecular Biology
Room 7-203
Phone: 318-675-5160
Fax: 318-675-5180
Email: rrhoad@lsuhsc.edu
Website: http://www.shrevebiochem.com/

Bio

1966 - Received BA in chemistry, Rice University, Houston, TX

1971 - Received Ph.D. in Biochemistry, George Washington University, Washington, DC

1992 - Professor and Head, Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, LSUHSC-S

 

Research Interests

1. Our laboratory studies the mechanism and regulation of protein synthesis in eukaryotic cells. Messenger mRNA is recruited to the ribosome in a series of steps involving recognition of the cap by initiation factor eIF4E, recognition of the poly(A) tract by the cytoplasmic poly(A)-binding protein, and unwinding of secondary structure in the 5’-untranslated region by the helicase eIF4A. All three of these proteins form a complex with eIF4G, which is in turn tethered to the 40S ribosomal subunit via the 13-subunit initiation factor eIF3. We are investigating the structures, functions, and interactions among these initiation factors using the tools of biochemistry, biophysics, and genetics in both mammalian cells and in the genetically tractable model organism Caenorhabditis elegans. We found that this C. elegans expresses five family members of eIF4E. To understand their individual biological roles, we are studying knockout phenotypes, eIF4E-associated proteins, and changes in the spectrium of mRNAs translated by polysomal profiling. We are taking a proteomic approach to understand why one eIF4E family member is required for germline development. We also are characterizing cap analogs that enhance translational activity and render mRNA resistant to decapping in mammalians.

   Specialized Techniques/Procedures
   

   1. cDNA and gene cloning
   2. HPLC of proteins and peptides
   3. Surface plasmon resonance (BIACORE)
   4. Fluorescence spectroscopy
   5. Affinity chromatography
   6. Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS)
   7. Affymetrix
   8. in vitro transcription and translation
   9. Knockouts of specific genes in C .elegans
   10. Mammalian cell culture