Department of Biology

Faculty

Brent J. F. Hill, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Biology 139 LSC University of Central Arkansas Conway, AR 72035-5003 (501) 450-5925 Fax (501) 450-5914 Email: bhill@uca.edu

The general aim of my research interests is to understand the cellular mechanisms associated with vascular pathologies, specifically atherosclerosis. My general goal is to conduct and integrate basic research at all different levels (tissue, cell, and molecular) which can be applied to understanding human vascular disease. Most of my research is aimed at understanding how atherosclerosis affects the coronary arteries of the heart. This research is highly significant since the coronary arteries are the principle suppliers of blood to the heart; thus, a reduction in blood flow due to atherosclerosis can lead to a myocardial infarction (i.e. heart attack). I use experimental models to create a cell phenotype which typifies the atherosclerotic state. My current interest is how the sex hormones (estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone) influence the contractile state of these 'diseased' arteries. Specifically, I want to know how gender influences (1) the regulation of calcium inside the cell, (2) receptor expression and function.

COURSES TAUGHT: Human Body I and II, Cell Biology

CURRICULUM VITA