Chemistry Department

College of Physical and Mathematical Sciences

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Daniel L Simmons

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Address:

Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Brigham Young University
Provo, UT 84602

Office: E280 BNSN

Office Phone: 801-422-4441

Lab Phone: 801-422-8161

Lab Room: E270 BNSN

Education Information:

BS, Brigham Young University (1978)

MS, Brigham Young University (1980)

Ph.D., University of Wisconsin--Madison (1986)

Postdoctoral Fellow, Harvard University (1986-89)

Visiting Scientist, The William Harvey Research Institute, London, England (1995-96)

Biochemistry

My laboratory's research focuses on signal transduction in the cancer cell. In particular, we are interested in a group of genes we have cloned that are activated during cell division. Our research determined that one of these genes encodes a previously undescribed cyclooxygenase, a critical enzyme involved in the synthesis of prostaglandins and thromboxane. These fatty-acid derived molecules are hormone-like messengers that play a role in many critical physiological processes, including inflammation. Aspirin and other antiinflammatory drugs inhibit cyclooxygenase, and reduce fever, pain, and inflammation through inhibiting this enzyme. We continue to investigate the role(s) of cyclooxygenase in cancer formation. Additionally we work on other growth-associated genes, including oncogenes and anti-oncogenes, that may provide insight into solving the mystery of cancer.

Research Group

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Professional Activities

Director, Cancer Research Center at Brigham Young University