Laboratory of Molecular Pathology

Director: Federico Gonzalez-Fernandez MD, PhD

Overview of the lab: Pathology from the Greek combines “PATHOS” or suffering with “LOGOS” to study. Pathology is therefore the study of disease. Understanding the pathobiology of disease combines numerous disciplines ranging from embryology, genetics, biophysics to clinical medicine. Our laboratory is broadly interested in understanding the mechanism of diseases affecting the central nervous system (CNS). We use the visual system as a model of the CNS. Our laboratory is located in the Research Building at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center (next to the South Campus of the SUNY Medical School). Projects often cross-pollinate with our clinical service (see Ophthalmic Pathology Service). Funding for our research programs comes from the National Institutes of Health (NEI), Medical Research Service of the Veterans Affairs, and Research to Prevent Blindness.

The following is meant to provide an overview of our on-going research, new projects, and opportunities for trainees ranging from postdoctoral scientists to undergraduate, and electives for medical and graduate students, and residents. However, as specific projects and opportunities are constantly evolving and changing, individuals potentially interested in working with us, or collaborating on a specific projects are encouraged to contact Dr. Gonzalez-Fernandez directly by phone or email.

Some Research Highlights:

Photoreceptors secrete a mystery protein  - Structure and Function of interphotoreceptor retinoid-binding protein (IRBP).

Masquerade Syndrome: Sebaceous carcinoma – a deadly cancer often overlooked.

The immune system as a trigger of the most common cause of new blindness in people over 55 years - age related macular degeneration (AMD).

Retinoblastoma the most common intraocular tumor of childhood – New insights into histogenesis and treatment using a transgenic mouse model.

Green frogs – transgenic approaches in the African clawed frog Xenopus laevis.

Resources and suppliers

Please contact Dr. Gonzalez-Fernandaz for more information at fg23@buffalo.edu

People

Federico Gonzalez-Fernandez, MD, PhD

Facilities

Laboratory of Molecular Pathology
Medical Research Service
Building 20, Room 219
Veterans Affairs Medical Center
3495 Bailey Avenue
Buffalo, New York 14215
Office: (716)-862-6519; Fax: 862-6526
Laboratory: 862-9200 x5842
E-mail: fg23@Buffalo.edu