How Vascular Endothelial Cells Regulate Transendothelial Migration: Intravital Microscopic Studies in Real Time

The inflammatory response is critical for maintaining health but also responsible for most of the damage in disease. All the good, bad, and ugly of inflammation take place after leukocytes cross blood vessels. This process is being studied in order to be able to better control it therapeutically. Transendothelial migration involves bidirectional signaling between leukocytes and endothelial cells. There are critical signaling events controlled by the endothelial cells that regulate the process and are potential targets of anti-inflammatory therapy. William (Bill) Muller, MD, Ph.D., will discuss the molecular regulation of transendothelial migration by endothelial cells, the intracellular machinery that promotes transmigration, and how selective intervention may be a successful therapeutic approach. 

Dr. Muller’s research focuses on the cellular and molecular basis of the inflammation, particularly the interactions of leukocytes and endothelial cells in the inflammatory response. His research has been well-funded by the National Institutes of Health, the American Heart Association, and several biotech companies. He received his A.B. degree summa cum laude from Harvard University in 1975, his Ph.D. degree from Rockefeller University in 1981, and his MD degree from Cornell University Medical College in 1982 as part of the combined MD/Ph.D. program.