J Furlow Uc Davis
J. David Furlow is a distinguished professor in the Department of Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior at the University of California, Davis (UC Davis). His academic journey began with a B.S. in Biochemistry from Pennsylvania State University in 1985, followed by a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1992. He further honed his expertise during a postdoctoral fellowship in Embryology at the Carnegie Institution of Washington. Throughout his career, Dr. Furlow has been at the forefront of research in developmental biology, endocrinology, and molecular physiology, contributing significantly to our understanding of gene expression and hormone action during development.
Research Focus
Dr. Furlow’s research primarily investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying hormone action during developmental processes. A significant aspect of his work involves studying the role of thyroid hormone in amphibian metamorphosis, particularly in Xenopus laevis. His studies have elucidated how thyroid hormone induces gene expression changes that drive the morphological transformations during metamorphosis. Additionally, Dr. Furlow explores the interplay between thyroid hormone and vitamin A, examining how these factors influence gene expression programs during development. His laboratory employs genome editing techniques in model organisms to dissect the functions of nuclear hormone receptors and their impact on developmental processes.
Academic Contributions
Beyond his research, Dr. Furlow has made substantial contributions to education at UC Davis. He has taught various undergraduate courses in physiology and endocrinology, imparting his extensive knowledge to the next generation of scientists. His commitment to education is also evident in his leadership roles within the university’s honors programs. As the Director of the University Honors Program, he played a pivotal role in restructuring and enhancing the program, emphasizing interdisciplinary learning and fostering a diverse academic community. Under his guidance, the program introduced innovative courses and initiatives, such as the SHAPE (Science, Humanities, and Arts Process and Engagement) courses, which promote collaborative learning across disciplines.
Publications and Impact
Dr. Furlow has authored numerous publications that have advanced our understanding of developmental biology and endocrinology. His work on the developmental switch induced by thyroid hormone in Xenopus laevis has been widely cited and remains a cornerstone in the field. His research has been funded by prestigious organizations, including the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and various European agencies. These grants have facilitated his laboratory’s exploration of how environmental factors, such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), interact with nuclear receptors and influence endocrine function, highlighting the broader implications of his work on public health and environmental science.
Furlow Lab
The Furlow Lab at UC Davis serves as a hub for cutting-edge research in developmental endocrinology. The lab’s primary focus is to unravel the complex interactions between thyroid hormone, vitamin A, and gene expression during development. Researchers in the lab utilize a variety of techniques, including genome editing and reporter gene assays, to investigate how these factors regulate developmental processes. The lab’s findings contribute to a deeper understanding of developmental biology and have potential applications in medicine and environmental health.
J. David Furlow’s work at UC Davis exemplifies the integration of research and education in advancing scientific knowledge. His contributions to developmental biology and endocrinology have not only expanded our understanding of fundamental biological processes but have also addressed pressing environmental and public health concerns. Through his leadership in academic programs and his dedication to research, Dr. Furlow continues to inspire and shape the future of science at UC Davis and beyond.