The complex regulatory code that defines the boundaries of human health and disease lies within the genome. If we are to understand the pathogenesis of disease, and develop treatments that are specific to the biological needs of our patients, we must first decipher the code. The sequencing of the draft genome for several species is being completed, and with it, functional genomics studies and technological advances are paving the way for a more complete understanding of biology. Molecular investigations of the inner workings of the cell, the genes that define biological networks, the proteins that regulate biological function, and the metabolic pathways that determine biological susceptibility now dominate the landscape of science. Diseases such as Alzheimer's, asthma, atherosclerosis, cancer, Parkinson's, and sudden cardiac death, can now be conceptualized beyond a select few mRNAs, proteins, or metabolites. And instead of thinking of one gene-one protein-one metabolite at a time, disease can now be evaluated in terms of hundreds or even thousands of molecular targets. The integration of molecular information into existing knowledge is helping to unravel the complexity of biological systems.

The Center for Genetics and Molecular Medicine (CGeMM) offers a forum for interactive opportunities to promote collaborations among basic scientists and clinicians at UofL and affiliated hospitals. The Center promotes programs to enhance scientific training of undergraduate and graduate students, medical students, postdoctoral fellows and clinical residents in the area of genetics and molecular medicine. It provides the exchange of information relevant to genetics and strives to increase the number of university faculty using molecular genetic approaches in their research. CGeMM members share common interests in genetics and molecular medicine and enjoy access to the Center's state-of-the art facility cores.

I invite you to join us at one of our regular monthly meetings and explore the exciting opportunities available through Center membership.

Please feel free to contact me to discuss your interests and how genetics and molecular medicine can become a part of your research.