9414115 Lauffenburger This project is on research to better understand the dynamics of growth factors and their receptors, focusing on the epidermal growth factor system. The object of the work is to manipulate growth factor ligands as a means of altering trafficking. There are three specific aims for the period of study: (1) to manipulate parameters in receptor/ligand and receptor/cell interactions in order to test previously constructed models of receptor dynamics; (2) to investigate ligand transport through model tissues; and (3) to study model autocrine/paracrine regulatory systems created by inserting engineered ligands and regulatory elements into cell lines. The understanding of growth factor/receptor dynamics and trafficking could lead to improvements in wound healing, drug delivery, gene therapy, and tissue regeneration. ***
