Welcome to the Kelleher Laboratory
Shannon L. Kelleher, Ph.D.
Our laboratory explores the regulation of zinc metabolism during reproduction (pregnancy and lactation). Our research integrates nutrition with genetics, endocrinology, physiology and cell biology to elucidate regulatory mechanisms responsible for zinc transport in mammary epithelial cells and placental trophoblasts. Specifically, we aim to identify the cellular and molecular mechanisms through which mammary epithelial cells and placental trophoblasts regulate zinc metabolism and respond to nutritional, environmental and hormonal stimuli. Towards this end, we are interested in understanding mechanisms through which zinc transporters are regulated during reproduction, specifically by hormones such as progesterone, estrogen and prolactin, and identifying their functionality in processes integral to human health and diseases such as cellular invasion and cancer.