Research Interests
Molecular Mechanisms in Inherited Disorders of Platelet Signal Transduction (NIH and March of Dimes). A. Koneti Rao, MD [PI] - Patients with inherited platelet bleeding disorders are not uncommonly encountered in clinical practice. However, in the vast majority of these patients, the underlying molecular mechanisms leading to the platelet dysfunction are unknown. Our studies have focused on platelet signaling processes in these patients and have delineated hitherto undescribed abnormalities in key signaling proteins, including phospholipase C-beta-2, GTP binding protein G-alpha-q and protein kinase-C-theta. In addition we have focused over the last several years on the genes regulated in megakaryocytes and platelets by transcription factor RUNX1. Our studies show that MYL9. ALOX12, PF4, and PRKCQ are direct targets of RUNX1. The insights from these studies will lead to better understanding of the normal platelet mechanisms and the identification of novel targets to develop newer antiplatelet agents.
Hyperglycemia, Hyperinsulinemia, and Tissue Factor Pathway of Blood Coagulation (NIH). A. Koneti Rao, MD [Co-PI; G. Boden, PI] - Diabetes mellitus is well-recognized risk factor for cardiovascular disease. These patients have a high incidence of acute events including heart attacks and strokes. The impact of hyperglycemia (high blood glucose) and hyperinsulinemia (high blood insulin) on the activation of blood coagulation mechanisms has not been fully clarified. These studies, performed in collaboration with Dr. Guenther Boden, focus on the activation of the tissue factor pathway induced by hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia in healthy subjects and patients with diabetes mellitus, Type 1 and 2. Studies to date reveal a strong evidence for the activation of tissue factor pathway by both hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia, with the highest levels being observed with the combination of both. Further studies will lead to an understanding of the effect of antithrombotic agents on the expression of tissue factor in diabetes mellitus.
Education, Training & Credentials
- Fellowship, Hematology, Cardeza Foundation for Hematologic Research, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, 1979
- Fellowship, Hematology/Oncology, Temple University Health Sciences Center, Philadelphia, PA, 1978
- Residency, Internal Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, 1977
- Internship, Internal Medicine, Albert Einstein Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, 1975
- MB, BS, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India, 1973
- Pre-Medical, Hindu College, University of Delhi, India, 1968
- M.E.A. School, New Delhi, India, 1967
Honors & Awards
- Institute Prize for Distinction (ranked first) in Pharmacology