Lance Wells

Using a combination of methodologies, including mass spectrometry, protein biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, proteomics, and molecular biology, we study the role of PTMs (primarily O-glycosylation) in a variety of pathophysiological processes including cancer, diabetes, and congenital muscular dystrophy. Our research is aimed at increasing our understanding of how increased functional diversity leads to finer control of biological processes. The hope is that by understanding the role of PTMs, we will not only more accurately describe fundamental biological processes but will also elucidate novel therapeutic targets in disease states such as type II diabetes, congenital muscular dystophy and cancer in which these processes have become dysregulated.