Laura Conforti , PhD

Bachelor's Degree: University of Genoa 1984 (Pharmaceutical Chemistry)

Pharmacy Degree: University of Genoa 1986 (Pharmacy)

Doctoral Degree: Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research Milano, Italy, 1987 (Pharmacological Research)

Fellowship : Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research Milan, Italy , 1987

My laboratory is interested in ion channels and the membrane mechanisms that regulate the activation and function of T lymphocytes. Ion channels, located on the membrane of T cells, are the effectors which link antigen recognition to T cell function and gene regulation by controlling calcium homeostasis.

Our main focus areas are: 

1. Role of ion channels in T cell response and adaptation to hypoxia. Hypoxia (low oxygen availability) can occur in physiological conditions in the lymph nodes and spleen as well as pathological conditions such as wounds and solid tumors. Therefore, T lymphocytes encounter hypoxic environments during their maturation process as well as in pathological sites where they fight diseases. Our group recently demonstrated that hypoxia inhibits the potassium channel Kv1.3 and effectively blocks T cell activation i.e. T cells are no longer able to combat the disease at hand. This may contribute to the failure of the immune system to fight cancer cells. 

2. Role of ion channels in the development and persistence of chronic autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). SLE affects about 1.5 million Americans, predominantly women, and is characterized by a broad variety of clinical symptoms such as glomerulonephritis and central nervous system impairment. We have shown that human T lymphocytes present with a characteristic defect in potassium channel behavior. This finding opens the possibility of targeting ion channels for new therapeutic intervention. 

3. Membrane mechanisms involved in the early phases of the T cell activation process. The response of T lymphocytes to antigens occurs through the physical interaction with antigen presenting cells and the formation of a specific contact area between these cells called immunological synapse. Functionally the immunological synapse is important for the proper development of the T cell response. We are interested in studying the processes by which ion channels move into this special area and the functional consequences of this localization. The techniques used in the laboratory include, but are not limited to, electrophysiology (patch clamp) and fluorescence and confocal microscopy. Furthermore, novel high throughput experimental methods using MEMS (microelectromechanical systems) and nanotechnology are currently applied, which allow the development of systems biology models for T cell activation. 


Conforti Lab
More InformationIn the news: (5-26-2009)
https://med.uc.edu/confortilab
 

- 10-2004 - present Associate Professor, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Cincinnati. Secondary appointment: Adjunct Associate Professor, Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, University of Cincinnati.,

10-1999 -08-2004 Research Assistant Professor, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension., University of Cincinnati,

- 1997 – 2004 Adjunct Assistant Professor, Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, University of Cincinnati.,

- 1995 – 1997 Research Associate, Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, University of Cincinnati.,

- 1988 – 1995 Visiting Scientist, Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Univ. Cincinnati.,

- 1987 – 1988 Scientist, Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology (Cardiovascular Pharmacology), Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Milan, Italy.,

- 1984 - 1987 Fellow of the Pharmacological Research Specialist Course, Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Milan, Italy.,

Grant: #2-R01-CA95286 Investigators:Conforti, L 04-01-2003 -04-30-2013 NIH/NCI Hypoxia and potassium channel activity in T lymphocytes Role:PI Active

Grant: #1-R21-AR060966-01 Investigators:Conforti, L 09-17-2011 -08-31-2013 NIH/NIAMS Targeted Ion channel downregulation by nanoparticles: a novel therapeutic approach to autoimmunity Role:PI Active

Grant: #1-R01-DK083582-01A2 Investigators:Amlal H, Conforti L 08-01-2010 -07-31-2015 NIH/NDDK Regulation of Inorganic Phosphorous (Pi) Metabolism by Estrogen Role:Co-Investigator Active

Grant: #1-R01-NS062756 Investigators:Holland K, Conforti L 04-01-2009 -03-31-2014 NIH/NINDS Sodium Channel Gene Variation in the Treatment of Epilepsy Role:Co-Investigator Active

Grant: #1-R21AI083076 Investigators:Conforti, L 02-15-2009 -01-31-2011 NIH/NIAID Potassium channel trafficking in geometrically patterned immunological synapses Role:PI Completed

Investigators:Conforti, L Schulz, Yun 03-01-2009 -08-31-2010 University Research Council - Interdisciplinary Faculty Research Support Ion channel downregulation nanoparticles: a novel therapeutic approach to autoimmunity Role:PI Completed

Grant: #AHA Grant-in-Aid #0855457D Investigators:Conforti, L 07-01-2008 -06-30-2010 Potassium channels and T lymphocyte dysfunction in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Role:PI Completed

Grant: #1-R01-HL074111 Investigators:Takimoto K, Conforti L 04-01-2004 -03-31-2008 NIH/NHLB Regulation of Kv channels by anorexigens Role:PI Subcontract Completed

Investigators:Conforti L, Schulz, Shanov 02-01-2007 -01-31-2008 University Research Council - Interdisciplinary Faculty Research Support Membrane signaling in geometrically patterned immunoligical synapses Role:PI Completed

Investigators:Conforti L, Nicolaou S 07-01-2006 -06-30-2007 AHA Ohio Valley Pre-Doctoral Fellowship Implications of Kv1.3 channel movement into the immunoligical synapses of human T cells in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Role:Mentor Completed

Grant: #AHA Scientist Development Award #0030091 Investigators:Conforti L 01-01-2000 -12-31-2003 American Heart Association Oxygen sensing and ion channels Role:PI Completed

Grant: #ACS Institutional Grant #92-026-09 Investigators:Conforti L 07-01-2002 -06-30-2003 American Cancer Society Tumor hypoxia and potassium channel activity in T lymphocytes Role:PI Completed

Investigators:Conforti L 01-04-2002 -12-31-2002 University of Cincinnati Role of potassium channels in the response of T lymphocytes to hypoxia Completed

Investigators:Conforti L 1989 -1990 American Heart Association (Ohio Affiliate) Synaptic transmission in co-cultures of single sympathetic neurons and cardiac myocytes Completed

Grant: #R01-CA-95286 Investigators:Conforti, Laura 04-01-2003 -03-30-2009 National Cancer Institute Hypoxia and Potassium Channel Activity in T Lymphocytes Role:PI $1,359,889.00 Closed Level:Federal

Grant: #0002905 / R01 HL074111 Investigators:Conforti, Laura 04-01-2004 -03-31-2009 National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute Regulation of Kv Channels by Anorexigens Role:PI $368,578.02 Closed Level:Federal

Investigators:Conforti, Laura 01-01-2000 -12-31-2003 American Heart Association - National Chapter Oxygen Sensing and Ion Channels Role:PI $260,000.00 Closed Level:Private Non-Profit

Grant: #0855457D Investigators:Conforti, Laura 07-01-2008 -04-01-2011 American Heart Association - Great Rivers Affiliate Potassium Channels and T Lymphocyte Dysfunction in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Role:PI $121,000.00 Closed Level:Private Non-Profit

Grant: #R21 AI083076 Investigators:Conforti, Laura; Schulz, Mark; Shanov, Vesselin 02-15-2009 -01-31-2012 National Institute of General Medical Sciences Potassium Channel Trafficking in Geometrically Patterned Immunological Synapses Role:PI $427,050.00 Closed Level:Federal

Grant: #R01 CA095286 Investigators:Conforti, Laura; Schulz, Mark 06-01-2009 -04-30-2014 National Cancer Institute Hypoxia and Potassium Channel Activity in T Lymphocytes Role:PI $1,248,860.00 Active Level:Federal

Grant: #R01 DK083582 Investigators:Amlal, Hassane; Conforti, Laura; Sheriff, Sulaiman 08-26-2010 -07-31-2015 National Inst of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease Regulation of Inorganic Phosphorus (Pi) Metabolism by Estrogen Role:Collaborator $1,213,889.00 Active Level:Federal

Grant: #R21AR060966 Investigators:Conforti, Laura 09-17-2011 -08-31-2014 National Institute of Arthritis, Musculoskeletal and Skin Disease Targeted Ion Channel Downregulation By Nanoparticles: A Novel Therapeutic Approach in SLE Role:PI $394,738.00 Active Level:Federal

Grant: #R01CA095286 Investigators:Casper, Keith; Conforti, Laura 07-01-2015 -06-30-2020 National Cancer Institute Hypoxia and Potassium Channel Activity in T Lymphocytes Role:PI $314,805.00 Awarded Level:Federal

Grant: #PTRF Grant Investigators:Conforti, Laura 12-01-2015 -11-30-2016 Dialysis Clinic, Inc. Targeted Nanoparticle-based therapy in SLE Role:PI $60,000.00 Awarded Level:Private Non-Profit

Grant: #Gromada Investigators:Conforti, Laura 07-01-2016 -06-30-2017 Brandon C. Gromada Head and Neck Cancer Foundation Tumor microenvironment and immune therapies Role:PI $6,000.00 Active Level:Private Non-Profit

Grant: #R01AI123158 Investigators:Askew, David; Conforti, Laura; Krishnan, Karthik 09-27-2016 -08-31-2021 National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases ER stress and calcium in host adaptation of A. fumigatus Role:Collaborator $387,568.00 Active Level:Federal

Grant: #PTR 2016-05 Investigators:Conforti, Laura 02-01-2017 -01-31-2018 Dialysis Clinic, Inc. Targeted nanoparticle-based therapy in SLE Role:PI $60,000.00 Active Level:Private Non-Profit

Grant: #W81XWH-17-1-0374 (CA160714 Investigators:Conforti, Laura 07-01-2017 -06-30-2020 Department of the Army Medical Research Acquisition Activity Ionic mechanisms of resistance to immunotherapy in head and neck cancer Role:PI $533,320.00 Awarded Level:Federal

Grant: #PTRF# 2017-09 Investigators:Conforti, Laura; Khodoun, Marat 02-01-2018 -01-31-2019 Dialysis Clinic, Inc. Targeted nanoparticle-based therapy in SLE Role:PI $60,000.00 Active Level:Private Non-Profit

Grant: #C-4012 Investigators:Conforti, Laura 12-01-2017 -11-30-2018 Dialysis Clinic, Inc. Humanized mouse model of lupus nephritis Role:PI $25,000.00 Awarded Level:Private Non-Profit

10-01-2021 -09-30-2023 Dialysis Clinic, Inc. DCI Bridge Funding Role:PI 100000.00 Hold Level:Non Profit

10-01-2021 -09-30-2023 Dialysis Clinic, Inc. DCI Bridge Funding Role:PI 100000.00 Hold Level:Non Profit

Grant: #R21CA277341 Investigators:Conforti, Laura; Khodoun, Marat; Wise-Draper, Trisha 12-09-2022 -11-30-2024 National Cancer Institute Liposome-based mRNA cancer immunotherapy targeting ion channels Role:PI 189338.00 Awarded Level:Federal

Published Abstracts

Chen Z ,Colombo T, Conforti L, Donelli M, Fiedorowicz R, Marchi S, Pollini A, Riva E, Zuanetti G, Latini R (10-1986. ) Comparative evaluation of the effect of three new anthracycline and doxorubicin on isolated rat heart .[Abstract]

Lazzara R, Zaza Am, Zuanetti G, De Ferrari G, Latini R, Conforti L, Schwartz P (04-1986. ) Analisi dei fattori che influenzano la sensibilita' alle catecolamine in vivo e in cuori isolati. .[Abstract]

Latini R, Zuanetti G, Conforti L, Schwartz P, Lazzara R (06-1987. ) Analysis of the role of peripheral nervous system in the different sensitivity to epinephrine in isolated vs intact hears .[Abstract]

Millhorn D, Raymond R, Filisko T, Zhu W, Conforti L (03-1996. ) Regulation of gene transcriptions in O2-sensitive cells by reduced O2 tension: signal transduction and genomic mechanisms .[Abstract]

Zhu W, Conforti L, Millhorn D (1996. ) Interaction of dopamine receptors iwth the O2-sensitive K+ current in PC12 cells .[Abstract]

Kobayashi S, Conforti L, Zhu W, Millhorn D (1996. ) Adenosine stimulates voltage-dependent K current in pheochromocytoma (PC12) cells via activation of A2 receptors .[Abstract]

Millhorn D, Raymond R, Filisko T, Zhu W, Conforti L (06-1996. ) Regulation of gene expression in O2-sensitive cells: signal transduction and genomic mechanisms .[Abstract]

Conforti L, Millhorn D (11-1996. ) Selective inhibition of a slow-inactivating voltage dependent potassium channel in PC12 cells by hypoxia .[Abstract]

Conforti L, Freeman T. Millhorn D (06-1999. ) Regulation of Shaker-type potassium channels by hypoxia .[Abstract]

Conforti L, Millhorn D (09-1999. ) Oxygen-sensitivity of Kv1 potassium channels .[Abstract]

Xu J, Wang Z, Petrovic S, Petrovic M, Conforti L, Soleimani M (2001. ) Characterization of the Na+:HCO3- contransporter NBC4: Expression, functional properties and novel splicing variant .[Abstract]

Petrovic M, Conforti L, Burnham C, Petrovic S, Wang Z, Xu J, Amlal H, Soleimani M (2001. ) The 3-prime end of NBC1 mediates the inhibition of camp and affects the electrogenecity but not the pH activity of the kidney Na+:HCO3- cotransporter .[Abstract]

Zakrewshka A, Schnell P, Striet J, Hui A, Petrovic M, Conforti L, Czyzyk-Krzeska M (2003. ) Hypoxia-induced hyperphosphorylation of p300 CBP transcription coactivators requires calcium and specific glucose metabolic pathway .[Abstract]

Conforti L (11-2003. ) Oxygen sensing and ion channels .[Abstract]

Li H, Petrovic S, Petrovic M, Conforti L, Barone S, Soleimani M (11-2003. ) Membrane targeting of the Na+:HCO3- contransporter NBC1 is dependent on an acid carboxy terminal motif .[Abstract]

Petrovic S, Barone S, Xu J, Ma L, Conforti L, Kujala M, Kere J, Soleimani M (11-2003. ) Identification of a basolateral Cl/HCO3- exchanger specific to intercalated cells in outer medullary collecting duct: co-localization with AE1 .[Abstract]

Conforti L (11-2003. ) Molecular basis and functional role of oxygen sensitive potassium channels .[Abstract]

Robbins J, Lee S, Filipovich A, Conforti L (03-2004. ) Hypoxia modulates T cell receptor-mediated activation in a subset of human T lymphocytes via Kv1.3 channels .[Abstract]

Szigligeti P, Robbins J, Petrovic M, Conforti L (03-2004. ) Differential effects of hypoxia on ion channels in human T lymphocytes: Selective modulation of Kv1.3 channels .[Abstract]

Curran K, Robbins J, Conforti L (04-2004. ) Pre-exposure to hypoxia decreases calcium-mediated acute activation in human T lymphocytes .[Abstract]

Conforti L (05-2005. ) Hypoxia-induced inhibition of T lymphocyte activation: a key role of Kv1.3 channels and p56lck .[Abstract]

Nyakeriga A, Nicolaou S, Goebel J, Conforti L, Chougnet C (11-2006. ) HIV gp120-CD4 interactions affect Lck redistribution and activation in primary T cells .[Abstract]

Nicolaou S, Neumeier L, Peng Y, Devor D, Conforti L (03-2007. ) The Ca²-activated K channel KCa3.1 compartmentalizes in the immunological synapse of human T lymphocytes .[Abstract]

Latini R, Zuanetti G, Conforti L, Schwartz P, Lazzara R (1987. ) Demonstration and analysis of possible mechanisms for amplification of epinephrine effects in vivo .[Abstract]Fed Proc, 46 ,1256

Conforti L, Tohse N, Sperelakis N (1991. ) Fast sodium current in 18-day-old fetal rat ventricular cardiomycocytes .[Abstract]J Mol Cell Cardiol, 23 ,S97

Tohse N, Conforti L, Sperelakis N (1991. ) Preferential recruitment of one subtype of cardiac L-type Ca²+ channel by Bay K 8644 .[Abstract]Biophysical J, 59 ,86A

Conforti L, Tohse N, Sperelakis N (1992. ) Developmental changes in fast sodium current of rat ventricular cardiomycocytes .[Abstract]Biophysical J, 61 ,305A

Zhu W, Conforti L, Millhorn D (1995. ) Excitation-secretion in PC12 cells during hypoxia .[Abstract]J Neurosc, 21 (1 ) ,65A

Peng M, Liu Z, Conforti L, Millhorn D (1996. ) Inhibition of the nicotinic-type acetylcholine receptor epsilon subunit mRNA expression by somatostating (SST) .[Abstract]J Neurosc, 22 (3 ) ,1965a

Kobayashi S, Conforti L, Millhorn D (1997. ) Adenosine modulates hypoxic chemoreceptin in PC12 cells via A2 receptor stimulation .[Abstract]FASEB J, 11 ,A197

Conforti L, Millhorn D (1997. ) Oxygen-sensitivity and enhanced expression of a delayed-rectifier K channel in PC12 cells during hypoxia .[Abstract]FASEB J, 11 ,A329

Zhu W, Conforti L, Millhorn D (1997. ) Receptor modulation of membrane conductances in PC12 cells .[Abstract]FASEB J, 11 ,A133

Conforti L, Bodi L, Millhorn D (1998. ) Oxygen0sensitivity of the Shaker Kv1.2 potassium channel .[Abstract]FASEB J, 12 ,A438

Kobayashi S, Conforti L, Zhu W, Beitner-Johnson D, Millhorn D (1999. ) Chronic hypoxia down-regulates G□o in PC12 cells: a mechanism for attenuated dopamine D2 receptor-mediated inhibition of Ca²+ current .[Abstract]FASEB J, 13 ,A805.6

Millhorn D, Conforti L, Beitner-Johnson D, Kobayashi S, Conrad Wm Raymond R, Rust R, Freeman T (1999. ) Oxygen chemosensitivity: stimulus-transcription coupling .[Abstract]FASEB J, 13 ,A806.1

Sutliff R, Conforti L, Kranias E, Paul R (1999. ) Mechanisms underlying altered portal vein mechanical activity in phospholamban gene-ablated mice .[Abstract]FASEB J, 13 ,A123.4

Thorne G, Conforti L, Paul R (2000. ) Impaired oxygen sensitivity following organ culture: new approaches to studying the mechanisms of hypoxic coronary vasodilation .[Abstract]FASEB J, 14 ,A414

Conforti L, Millhorn D (2000. ) Critical role of the Kv1.2 alpha subunit in the response to hypoxia of native O2-sensitive K channels .[Abstract]FASEB J, 14 ,A638

Petrovic M, Mohammad D, Ma Q, Conforti L (2002. ) Oxygen-sensitive potassium channels in T lymphocytes .[Abstract]FASEB J, 16 ,A60

Conforti L, Petrovic M, Takimoto K, Mohammad D (2002. ) Oxygen-sensitive ion channels in human T lymphocytes .[Abstract]The pharmacologist, 44 (2 ) ,Suppl 1: A141

Conforti L, Anjak A, Neumeier L (2004. ) Heteromultimeric Kc1.2-Kv1.3 channels underlie the O2-sensitive K current in PC12 cells .[Abstract]FASEB J, 18 (5 ) ,A1065

Szigligeti P, Neumeier L, Lee S, Filipovich A, Conforti L (2005. ) Hypoxia-induced inhibition of Kv1.3 channes in human CD4+ T lymphocytes is mediated by the src protein tyrosine kinase p56Lck .[Abstract]FASEB J, 19 (5 ) ,A389

Hong C, Petrovic S, Szigligeti P, Conforti L, Soleimani M (2005. ) The amino terminal domain regulates the electrogenecity whereas the carboxyl terminal domain mediates the targeting of NBC1 to the basolateral membrane .[Abstract]Journal of American Society of Nephrology, 16 ,124A

Nicolaou S, Szigligeti P, Neumeier L, Conforti L (2006. ) Kv1.3 channel redistribution in the immunological synapse varies according to the T lymphocyte activation state .[Abstract]FASEB J, 20 ,A215.11

Nicolaou S, Szigligeti P, Duncan H, Lee S, Kant K, Filipovich A, Conforti L (2006. ) Altered dynamics of Kv1.3 channel compartmentalization in the immunological synapse in systemic lupus erythematosus .[Abstract]Clinical Immunol, 119 ,A68

Bodi L, D'Souza K, Rubio M, Nicolaou S, Fuller B, Conforti L, Molketin J, Schwartz A (2007. ) Deletion of calcineurin partially rescues impaired cardiac function in mouse model with targeted overexpression of L-type calcium channel a1c. Journal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology, 42 ,A37

Yun Y, Dong Z, Shanov C, Bange A, Heineman W, Halsall H, Conforti L, Bhattacharya A, Schulz M (2007. ) On-line carbon nanotube-based biosensors in microfluidic channels .[Abstract]

Nicolaou S, Neumeier L, Molleran L, Ragupathy M, Duncan H, Kant K, Filipovich A, Mongey A, Conforti L (2008. ) Differential calcium signaling and Kv1.3 trafficking to the immunological synapse in Systemic Lupus Erythematosis .[Abstract]

Yun H, Conforti L (2008. ) Creation of Artificial Antigen-Presenting Cell Membrane Surface for the Study of T-Cell Activation .[Abstract]

Yun Y, Neumeier L, Schulz M, Shanov V, Conforti L (10-2009. ) Spatiotemporal Dynamics of Immunological Synapse Formation in T Cells .[Abstract]

Kuras Z, Kucher V, Neumeier L, Dillehay K, Conforti L (2010. ) Selective downregulation of human Kv1.2 channes by PKA-I .[Abstract]

Yun Y, Conforti L (2010. ) Kv1.3 channel mobility and function in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus .[Abstract]

Marticn G, Yun Y, Conforti L (10-2010. ) Modeling of Potassium Accumulation at the Immunological Synapse and its Effect on T-Cell Function .[Abstract]

Chimote A, Vergamini S, Filipovich A, Conforti L (2011. ) Disruption of membrane trafficking underlies the reduction in Kv1.3 channel surface expression in T lymphocytes during hypoxia .[Abstract]

Kuras Z, Yun Y, Chimote A, Conforti L (2011. ) Ca²+-activated K+ channels (KCa3.1) control activated T cell migration .[Abstract]

Chimote A, Kuras Z, Yun Y, Neumeier L, Conforti L (2012. ) Kca3.1 and TRPM7 channels at the uropod regulate migration of activated human T cells.

Hajdu P, Collins B, Hooper E, Thompson T, Yun Y, Conforti L (2012. ) Targeting T cells with functionalized lipid nanovesicles .[Abstract]

Peer Reviewed Publications

Chimote, A. A.; Hajdu, P.; Kucher, V.; Boiko, N.; Kuras, Z.; Szilagyi, O.; Yun, Y. H.; Conforti, L. (2013. ) Selective inhibition of KCa3.1 channels mediates adenosine regulation of the motility of human T cells .191 (12 ) ,6273-80

Hajdu, Péter; Chimote, Ameet A.; Thompson, Tyler H.; Koo, Youngmi; Yun, Yeoheung; Conforti, Laura (2013. ) Functionalized liposomes loaded with siRNAs targeting ion channels in effector memory T cells as a potential therapy for autoimmunity .Biomaterials, , 34 (38 ) ,10249-10257

Kuras, Z.; Yun, Y. H.; Chimote, A. A.; Neumeier, L.; Conforti, L. (2012. ) KCa3.1 and TRPM7 Channels at the Uropod Regulate Migration of Activated Human T Cells .PLoS ONE, , 7 (8 ) ,e43859

Nicolaou SA, Neumeier L, Peng Y, Devor D, Conforti L (2007. ) The Ca²+-activated K+ channel KCa3.1 compartmentalizes in the immunological synapse of human t lymphocytes .Am J Physiol - Cell Physiol, , 292 (4 ) ,C1431-C1439

Szigligeti P, Neumeier L, Duke E, Chougnet C, Takimoto K, Molleran Lee S, Filipovich AH, Conforti L (2006. ) Signaling during hypoxia in human T lymphocytes - critical role of the src proteing tyrosine kinase p56lck in the oxygen-sensitivity of Kv1.3 channels .Journal of Physiology, , 573 (2 ) ,357-370

Millhorn D, Beitner-Johnson D, Conforti L, Conrad P, Kobayashi S, Yuan Y, Rust R (2000. ) Gene Regulation During Hypoxia in Excitable Oxygen-Sensing Cells: Depolarization-Transcription Coupling .Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, , 131-142

Zakrzewska A, Schnell PO, Striet JB, Hui A, Petrovic M, Robbins JR, Conforti L, Gozal D, Wathelet M, Czyzyk-Krzeska M (2005. ) Hypoxia-activated metabolic pathway stimulates phosphorylation of p300 and cbp in oxygen-sensitive cells .Journal of Neurochemistry, , 94 (5 ) ,1288-1296

Sutliff RL, Conforti L, Weber CS, Kranias EG, Paul RJ (2004. ) Regulation of the spontaneous contractile activity of the portal vein by the sarcoplasmic reticulum: evidence from the phospholamban gene-ablated mouse .Vascular Pharmacology, , 41 (6 ) ,197-204

Petrovic S, Barone S, Xu J, Conforti L, Ma L, Kujala M, Kere J, Soleimani M (2004. ) Slc26a7: a basolateral cl-/hco3- exchanger specific to intercalated cells of the outer medullary collecting duct .American Journal of Physiology - Renal Physiology, , 286 (1 ) ,F161-F169

Thorne GD, Conforti L, Paul RJ (2002. ) Hypoxic vasorelaxation inhibition by organ culture correlates with loss of Kv channels but not Ca2+ channels .American Journal of Physiology - Heart and Circulatory Physiology, , 283 (1 52-1 ) ,H247-H253

Takimoto K, Yang E-K, Conforti L (2002. ) Palmitoylation of KChIP splicing variants is required for efficient cell surface expression of Kv4.3 channels .Journal of Biological Chemistry, , 277 (30 ) ,26904-26911

Wang Z, Conforti L, Petrovic S, Amlal H, Burnham CE, Soleimani M (2001. ) Mouse Na+:HCO3- cotransporter isoform NBC-3 (kNBC-3): cloning, expression, and renal distribution .Kidney International, , 59 (4 ) ,1405-1414

Kobayashi S, Conforti L, Zhu WH, Beitner-Johnson D, Millhorn DE (1999. ) Role of the D2 dopamine receptor in molecular adaptation to chronic hypoxia in PC12 cells .Pflugers Archiv European Journal of Physiology, , 438 (6 ) ,750-759

Kobayashi S, Conforti L, Pun RY, Millhorn DE (1997. ) Adenosine modulates hypoxic chemoreception in PC12 cells via A2 receptor stimulation .The Journal of Physiology, , 508 (1 ) ,95-107

Conforti L, Millhorn DE (1997. ) Selective inhibition of a slow-inactivating voltage-dependent K+ channel in rat PC12 cells by hypoxia .The Journal of Physiology, , 502 (2 ) ,293-305

GEPC, Latini R, Tognoni G., Conforti L, Gondoni L, Santoro E, Rocchetti M (1988. ) Multicentre, cross sectional study of ventricular arrhythmias in chronically haemodialysed patients .Lancet, , 8606 ,305-307

Conforti L, Bodi I, Nisbet J W, Millhorn DE (2000. ) O2-sensitive K+ channels: role of the Kv1.2 alpha subunit in mediating the hypoxic response .The Journal of Physiology, , 524 (3 ) ,783-793

Zhu WH, Conforti L, Millhorn DE (1997. ) Expression of dopamine D2 receptor in PC-12 cells and regulation of membrane conductances by dopamine .American Journal of Physiology - Cell Physiology, , 273 (42 ) ,C1143-C1150

Nicolaou, Stella A; Neumeier, Lisa; Peng, Youqing; Devor, Daniel C; Conforti, Laura (2007. ) The Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channel KCa3.1 compartmentalizes in the immunological synapse of human T lymphocytes.American journal of physiology. Cell physiology, , 292 (4 ) ,C1431-9 More Information

Zhu WH, Conforti L, Czyzyk-Krzeska MF, Millhorn DE (1996. ) Membrane depolarization in PC-12 cells during hypoxia is regulated by an O2-sensitive K+ current .American Journal of Physiology - Cell Physiology, , 271 (40 ) ,C658-665

Chimote, Ameet A; Hajdu, Peter; Kottyan, Leah C; Harley, John B; Yun, Yeoheung; Conforti, Laura (2016. ) Nanovesicle-targeted Kv1.3 knockdown in memory T cells suppresses CD40L expression and memory phenotype.Journal of autoimmunity, , 69 ,86-93 More Information

Hajdu, Peter; Martin, Geoffrey V; Chimote, Ameet A; Szilagyi, Orsolya; Takimoto, Koichi; Conforti, Laura (2015. ) The C-terminus SH3-binding domain of Kv1.3 is required for the actin-mediated immobilization of the channel via cortactin.Molecular biology of the cell, , 26 (9 ) ,1640-51 More Information

Conforti L, Sumii K, Sperelakis N (1995. ) Dioctanoyl-glycerol inhibits l-type calcium current in embryonic chick cardiomyocytes independent of protein kinase c activation .Journal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology, , 27 (5 ) ,1219-1224

Chimote, Ameet A; Hajdu, Peter; Kucher, Vladimir; Boiko, Nina; Kuras, Zerrin; Szilagyi, Orsolya; Yun, Yeo-Heung; Conforti, Laura (2013. ) Selective inhibition of KCa3.1 channels mediates adenosine regulation of the motility of human T cells.Journal of immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950), , 191 (12 ) ,6273-80 More Information

Conforti L, Sumii K, Sperelakis N (1994. ) Diphenylamine-2-carboxylate blocks voltage-dependent na+ and ca2+ channels in rat ventricular cardiomyocytes .European Journal of Pharmacology, , 259 (2 ) ,215-218

Hajdu, Péter; Chimote, Ameet A; Thompson, Tyler H; Koo, Youngmi; Yun, Yeoheung; Conforti, Laura (2013. ) Functionalized liposomes loaded with siRNAs targeting ion channels in effector memory T cells as a potential therapy for autoimmunity.Biomaterials, , 34 (38 ) ,10249-57 More Information

Kuras, Zerrin; Yun, Yeo-Heung; Chimote, Ameet A; Neumeier, Lisa; Conforti, Laura (2012. ) KCa3.1 and TRPM7 channels at the uropod regulate migration of activated human T cells.PloS one, , 7 (8 ) ,e43859 More Information

Conforti L, Tohse N, Sperelakis N (1993. ) Tetrodotoxin-sensitive sodium current in rat fetal ventricular myocytes - contribution to the plateau phase of action potential .Journal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology, , 25 (2 ) ,159-173

Conforti L, Tohse N, Sperelakis N (1991. ) Influence of sympathetic innervation on the membrane electrical properties of neonatal rat cardiomyocytes in culture .Journal of Developmental Physiology, , 15 (4 ) ,237-246

Latini R, Zuanetti G, Conforti L, Schwartz PJ, Lazzara R (1988. ) Demonstration of a different sensitivity to epinephrine in isolated and in vivo hearts .European Journal of Pharmacology, , 156 (1 ) ,87-94

Conforti L, Millhorn DE (2000. ) Regulation of Shaker-type potassium channels by hypoxia .Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, , 475 ,265-274

Kobayashi S, Conforti L, Millhorn DE (2000. ) Gene expression and function of adenosine A2A receptors in the rat carotid body .American Journal of Physiology - Lung Cellular and Molecular Physiology, , 279 (2 ) ,L273-282

Conforti, Laura (2017. ) Potassium channels of T lymphocytes take center stage in the fight against cancer.Journal for immunotherapy of cancer, , 5 ,2 More Information

Caccia S, Conforti L, Conti I (1986. ) Effect of the anticonvulsant denzimol on the disposition of diazepam in the rat .Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, , 38 (6 ) ,469-472

Chimote, Ameet A; Hajdu, Peter; Sfyris, Alexandros M; Gleich, Brittany N; Wise-Draper, Trisha; Casper, Keith A; Conforti, Laura (2017. ) Kv1.3 Channels Mark Functionally Competent CD8+ Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes in Head and Neck Cancer.Cancer research, , 77 (1 ) ,53-61 More Information

Conforti, Laura (2012. ) The ion channel network in T lymphocytes, a target for immunotherapy.Clinical immunology (Orlando, Fla.), , 142 (2 ) ,105-6 More Information

Li HC, Kucher V, Li EY, Conforti L, Zahedi K, Soleimani M (2012. ) The role of aspartic acid residues 405 and 416 of the kidney isotype of sodium-bicarbonate cotransporter 1 in its targeting to the plasma membrane.American Journal of Physiology. Cell Physiology, , 302 (12 ) ,C1713-1730 More Information

Szigligeti, Peter; Neumeier, Lisa; Duke, Eugene; Chougnet, Claire; Takimoto, Koichi; Lee, Susan Molleran; Filipovich, Alexandra H; Conforti, Laura (2006. ) Signalling during hypoxia in human T lymphocytes--critical role of the src protein tyrosine kinase p56Lck in the O2 sensitivity of Kv1.3 channels.The Journal of physiology, , 573 (Pt 2 ) ,357-70 More Information

Martin GV, Yun YH, Conforti L (2012. ) Modulation of T cell activation by localized K+ accumulation at the immunological synapse--a mathematical model.Journal of Theoretical Biology, , 300 ,173-182 More Information

Kuras Z, Kucher V, Gordon SM, Neumeier L, Chimote AA, Filipovich AH, Conforti L (2012. ) Modulation of Kv1.3 channels by protein kinase A I in T lymphocytes is mediated via the Disc large 1 (Dlg1)-tyrosine kinase Lck complex.American Journal of Physiology. Cell Physiology, , 302 (10 ) ,C1504-1512 More Information

Thorne, George D; Conforti, Laura; Paul, Richard J (2002. ) Hypoxic vasorelaxation inhibition by organ culture correlates with loss of Kv channels but not Ca(2+) channels.American journal of physiology. Heart and circulatory physiology, , 283 (1 ) ,H247-53 More Information

Chimote, Ameet A; Balajthy, Andras; Arnold, Michael J; Newton, Hannah S; Hajdu, Peter; Qualtieri, Julianne; Wise-Draper, Trisha; Conforti, Laura (2018. ) A defect in KCa3.1 channel activity limits the ability of CD8+ T cells from cancer patients to infiltrate an adenosine-rich microenvironment.Science signaling, , 11 (527 ) , More Information

Chimote AA, Kuras Z, Conforti, L (2012. ) Disruption of Kv1.3 channel forward vesicular trafficking by hypoxia in human T lymphocytes.The Journal of Biological Chemistry, , 287 (3 ) ,2055-2067 More Information

Rossi, Francesca; Geiszler, Philippine C; Meng, Weina; Barron, Matthew R; Prior, Malcolm; Herd-Smith, Anna; Loreto, Andrea; Lopez, Maria Yanez; Faas, Henryk; Pardon, Marie-Christine; Conforti, Laura (2018. ) NAD-biosynthetic enzyme NMNAT1 reduces early behavioral impairment in the htau mouse model of tauopathy.Behavioural brain research, , 339 ,140-152 More Information

Sievers, Caroline; Platt, Nick; Perry, V Hugh; Coleman, Michael P; Conforti, Laura (2003. ) Neurites undergoing Wallerian degeneration show an apoptotic-like process with Annexin V positive staining and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential. Neuroscience research, , 46 (2 ) ,161-9

Khodoun, Marat; Chimote, Ameet A; Ilyas, Farhan Z; Duncan, Heather J; Moncrieffe, Halima; Kant, K Shashi; Conforti, Laura (2020. ) Targeted knockdown of Kv1.3 channels in T lymphocytes corrects the disease manifestations associated with systemic lupus erythematosus.Science advances, , 6 (47 ) , More Information

Newton, Hannah S; Gawali, Vaibhavkumar S; Chimote, Ameet A; Lehn, Maria A; Palackdharry, Sarah M; Hinrichs, Benjamin H; Jandarov, Roman; Hildeman, David; Janssen, Edith M; Wise-Draper, Trisha M; Conforti, Laura (2020. ) PD1 blockade enhances K+ channel activity, Ca2+ signaling, and migratory ability in cytotoxic T lymphocytes of patients with head and neck cancer.Journal for immunotherapy of cancer, , 8 (2 ) , More Information

Dirar, Qassim; Russell, Teal; Liu, Lumei; Ahn, Sarah; Dotti, Gianpietro; Aravamudhan, Shyam; Conforti, Laura; Yun, Yeoheung (2020. ) Activation and degranulation of CAR-T cells using engineered antigen-presenting cell surfaces.PloS one, , 15 (9 ) ,e0238819 More Information

Nicolaou SA, Neumeier L, Takimoto K, Lee SM, Duncan HJ, Kant SK, Mongey AB, Filipovich AH, Conforti L (2010. ) Differential calcium signaling and Kv1.3 trafficking to the immunological synapse in systemic lupus erythematosus.Cell Calcium, , 47 (1 ) ,19-28 More Information

Agresta, Laura; Lehn, Maria; Lampe, Kristin; Cantrell, Rachel; Hennies, Cassandra; Szabo, Sara; Wise-Draper, Trisha; Conforti, Laura; Hoebe, Kasper; Janssen, Edith M (2020. ) CD244 represents a new therapeutic target in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.Journal for immunotherapy of cancer, , 8 (1 ) , More Information

Nicolaou SA, Neumeier L, Steckly A, Kucher V, Takimoto K, Conforti L (2009. ) Kv1.3 localization in the immunological synapse regulates the calcium response to antigen stimulation in T lymphocytes.J Immunol, , 183 (10 ) ,6296-6302 More Information

Chimote, Ameet A; Gawali, Vaibhavkumar S; Newton, Hannah S; Wise-Draper, Trisha M; Conforti, Laura (2020. ) A Compartmentalized Reduction in Membrane-Proximal Calmodulin Reduces the Immune Surveillance Capabilities of CD8+ T Cells in Head and Neck Cancer.Frontiers in pharmacology, , 11 ,143 More Information

Nyakeriga AM, Fichtenbaum CJ, Goebel J, Nicolaou S, Conforti L, Chougnet C (2009. ) Engagement of the CD4 receptor affects the redistribution of Lck to the immunological synapse in primary T cells: implications for T-cell activation during human immunodeficiency virus type 1 infection.Journal of Virology, , 83 (3 ) ,1193-1200 More Information

Nicolaou SA, Szigligeti P, Duncan HJ, Neumeier L, Lee SM, Mongey AB, Kant SK, Filipovich AH, Conforti L. (2007. ) Altered dynamics of Kv1.3 channel compartmentalization in the immunological synapse in systemic lupus erythematosus .Journal of Immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950), , 179 (1 ) ,346-356

Li H, Li E, Neumeier L, Conforti L, Soleimani M (2007. ) Identification of a novel signal in the cytoplasmic tail of the Na+:HCO3- cotransporter NBC1 that mediates basolateral targeting.American Journal of Physiology. Renal Physiology, , 292 (4 ) ,F1245-55 More Information

Li HC, Szigligeti P, Worrell R, Matthews J, Conforti L, Soleimani, M (2005. ) Missense mutations in Na+:HCO3- cotransporter NBC1 show abnormal trafficking in polarized kidney cells: a basis of proximal renal tubular acidosis.American Journal of Physiology - Renal Physiology, , 289 (1 ) ,F61-71 More Information

Robbins JR, Lee SM, Filipovich AH, Szigligeti P, Neumeier L, Petrovic, Conforti, L (2005. ) Hypoxia modulates early events in T cell receptor-mediated activation in human T lymphocytes via Kv1.3 channels.The Journal of Physiology, , 564 (Pt 1 ) ,131-143 More Information

Li HC, Worrell RT, Matthews JB, Husseinzadeh H, Neumeier L, Petrovic S, Conforti L, Soleimani M (2004. ) Identification of a carboxyl-terminal motif essential for the targeting of Na+-HCO-3 cotransporter NBC1 to the basolateral membrane.The Journal of Biological Chemistry, , 279 (41 ) ,43190-43197 More Information

Petrovic S, Barone S, Xu J, Conforti L, Ma L, Kujala M, Kere J, Soleimani M (2004. ) SLC26A7: a basolateral Cl-/HCO3- exchanger specific to intercalated cells of the outer medullary collecting duct.American Journal of Physiology. Renal Physiology, , 286 (1 ) ,F161-169 More Information

Conforti L, Takimoto K, Petrovic M, Pongs O, Millhorn D (2003. ) The pore region of the Kv1.2alpha subunit is an important component of recombinant Kv1.2 channel oxygen sensitivity. Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, , 306 (2 ) ,450-456

Conforti L, Petrovic M, Mohammad D, Lee S, Ma Q, Barone S, Filipovich, Alexandra AH (2003. ) Hypoxia regulates expression and activity of Kv1.3 channels in T lymphocytes: a possible role in T cell proliferation .Journal of Immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950), , 170 (2 ) ,695-702

Xu Jie, Wang Z, Barone S, Petrovic M, Amlal H, Conforti L, Petrovic S, Soleimani M (2003. ) Expression of the Na+-HCO-3 cotransporter NBC4 in rat kidney and characterization of a novel NBC4 variant.American Journal of Physiology. Renal Physiology, , 284 (1 ) ,F41-50 More Information

Conforti L, Kobayashi S, Beitner-Johnson D, Conrad PW, Freeman T, Millhorn DE (1999. ) Regulation of gene expression and secretory functions in oxygen-sensing pheochromocytoma cells .Respiration Physiology, , 115 (2 ) ,249-260

Kobayashi S, Beitner-Johnson D, Conforti L, Millhorn DE (1998. ) Chronic hypoxia reduces adenosine A2A receptor-mediated inhibition of calcium current in rat PC12 cells via downregulation of protein kinase A .The Journal of Physiology, , 512 ( Pt 2) ,351-363

Peng M, Conforti L, Millhorn DE (1998. ) Expression of somatostatin receptor genes and acetylcholine receptor development in rat skeletal muscle during postnatal development .International Journal of Molecular Medicine, , 1 (5 ) ,841-848

Millhorn DE, Raymond R, Conforti L, Zhu W, Beitner-Johnson D, Filisko T, Genter MB, Kobayashi S, Peng M (1997. ) Regulation of gene expression for tyrosine hydroxylase in oxygen sensitive cells by hypoxia .Kidney International, , 51 (2 ) ,527-35

Millhorn DE, Conforti L, Beitner-Johnson D, Zhu W, Raymond R, Filisko T, Kobayashi S, Peng M, Genter MB (1996. ) Regulation of ionic conductances and gene expression by hypoxia in an oxygen sensitive cell line .Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, , 410 ,135-42

Cox D, Conforti L, Sperelakis N, Matlib M (1993. ) Selectivity of inhibition of Na(+)-Ca2+ exchange of heart mitochondria by benzothiazepine CGP-37157 .Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology, , 21 (4 ) ,595-599

Tohse N, Conforti L, Sperelakis N (1991. ) Bay K 8644 enhances Ca2+ channel activities in embryonic chick heart cells without prolongation of open times .European Journal of Pharmacology, , 203 (2 ) ,307-10

Chen Z, Colombo T, Conforti L, Donelli M, Fiedorowicz RJ, Marchi S, Paolini A, Riva E, Zuanetti G, Latini R (1987. ) Effects of three new anthracyclines and doxorubicin on the rat isolated heart .The Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, , 39 (11 ) ,947-950

Book Chapter

Millhorn D. E., Conforti L., Beitner-Johnson D., Zhu W., Raymond R., Filisko T., Kobayashi S., Peng M. and Genter MB.: Regulation of ionic conductances and gene expression by hypoxia in an oxygen sensitive cell line. In: Frontiers in arterial chemoreception. Eds. P. Zapata, C. Eyzaguirre and R. W. Torrance. Plenum Publishing Corp. pg. 135-142, 1996.

Conforti L., Zhu H. W., Kobayashi S. and Millhorn D. E.: Mechanisms of oxygen chemosensitivity in a model cell line system. In: Oxygen Regulation of Ion Channels and Gene Expression. Ed. J. Lopez-Barneo and E. K. Weir. Futura Publishing Co., NY pg. 181-192, 1998.

Conforti L. and Sperelakis N.: The patch-clamp technique for measurement of K+ channels in Xenopus oocytes and mammalian expression systems. In: Potassium channels in cardiovascular biology. Kluwer-Plenum Press, S. L. Archer and N. J. Rusch. (eds), pg. 143-161, 2001.

Conforti L. and Millhorn D.E.: Oxygen-sensitive ion channels in PC12 cells. In: Hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction: the cellular and molecular mechanisms. Kluwer-Academic Publishers, J. X-J Yuan. (ed), pg. 389-399, 2004.

Yun Y, Conforti L, Dong Z, Shanov V, Shin J, Heineman W, Halsall H, Feng W, Ahn C, Doh J (2009 ) Nanoscale engineering of electrodes, biosensors, and protein surfaces Design of Particles, Sensors, Motors, Implants, Robots, and Devices .(pp. 478 -489).Artech House Publisher

Conforti L (2012 ) Patch-Clamp Techniques Cell Physiology Sourcebook, 4th Edition .(pp. 369 -382).Elsevier, Inc

Invited Presentations

1996 “Chemosensory response in an oxygen-sensitive cell line: ion channel modulation by hypoxia”. Servicio de Neurobiologia-Investigation, Hospital Ramon Y Cajal, Madrid, Spain.

1997 “Molecular structure of the oxygen-sensitive potassium channel”. Cardiovascular Section, VA Medical Center, Minneapolis.

1998 “Molecular and electrophysiological characterization of an oxygen-sensitive potassium channel”, AHFMR Visiting Lecturer, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada.

1998 “Molecular and electrophysiological techniques for identification and classification of voltage-gated K+ channels - Patch clamping in oocytes and mammalian cells”. Hot Topic Symposium: The Role of Potassium Channels in Hypertension and Conditions of Elevated Vascular Tone, Experimental Biology 98, San Francisco, CA.

1998 “Oxygen-sensitive K+ channels in excitable cells” Department of Molecular & Cellular Physiology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH.

1998 “O2 sensitive K+ channels in PC-12 cells” Cardiovascular Seminar #44: O2 sensitive K+ channels, American Heart Association, 71st Scientific Sessions, Dallas, TX.

1998 “Mechanisms of membrane excitability during hypoxia: role of the Kv1.2 K+ channel” Ohio Physiological Society, 14th Annual Meeting, Dayton, OH.

1999 “O2-sensitive K+ channels in excitable chemosensitive cells” Department of Physiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis.

1999 “Regulation of Shaker-type potassium channels by hypoxia”, Oxygen sensing: molecule to man Symposium, Philadelphia.

2000 “Critical role of the Kv1.2 alpha subunit in the response to hypoxia of native O2-sensitive K channels”, Feature Topic: Oxygen-sensitive ion channels and second messengers. Experimental Biology, San Diego, CA.

2002 “Potassium channels and T cell function”, Transplant Grand Rounds, Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH.

2002 “Oxygen-sensitive ion channels in human T lymphocytes”, Symposium on Ion channels as sensors of oxygen, XIVth World Congress of Pharmacology, San Francisco, CA.

2003 “Hypoxia: how we cope in health and disease”, Seminar series: “From the molecule to the Bedside”, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH.

2003 “Molecular basis and functional role of oxygen sensitive potassium channels in health and disease”, Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, University of Cincinnati.

2003 “Molecular basis and functional role of oxygen sensitive potassium channels”, 4th Neuroscience Symposium, Wright State University, Dayton, OH

2005 “Hypoxia and T cell activation: the plasma membrane viewpoint”, Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, University of Cincinnati.

2007 “Potassium channel trafficking defects in systemic lupus erythematosus”, Fluxes and Barriers series, University of Cincinnati.

2007 “Ion channel regulation of T cell activity: diagnostic and therapeutic promise”, Transplant Grand Rounds, Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati.

2007 “Membrane ionic mechanisms of T cell activation”, Nanomedicine Development Centers (NDC) investigator meeting, videoconference, December 12.

2008 “Calcium signaling and T cell dysfunction”, Immunohematology Club Research Seminar Series, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center.

Conforti L (2008. ) Artificial antigen presenting cell arrays: a tool to correct calcium defects in SLE T cells? .Nephrology and Hypertension Seminar Series, Division of Nephrology, University of Cincinnati.

Conforti L (2008. ) Calcium signaling and ion channel trafficking to the immunological synapse .Department of Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Cincinnati.

Conforti L (2009. ) Calcium signaling defects in SLE - Novel therapeutic approaches targeting ion channels .Cardiology Grand Rounds, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Chicago.

Conforti L (2009. ) Kv1.3 channels in T lymphocytes - it's all about location .Epithelial Physiology and Cell Biology Meeting, Telluride, CO.

Conforti L (2009. ) Nanotechnology in Medicine: a successful partnership to study autoimmune disease .Seminar Series: "From Molecule to Bedside", University of Cincinnati.

Conforti L (2010. ) Calcium signaling defects in autoimmunity: the ion channel network .Nephrology and Hypertension Seminar Series, University of Cincinnati, University of Cincinnati.

Conforti L (2010. ) Ion channel mobility and function in autoimmunity .Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, University of Cincinnati.

Conforti L (2010. ) Calcium signaling and the immunological synapse .Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Cincinnati.

Conforti L (2010. ) Calcium signaling defects in autoimmunity: the ion channel viewpoint .Frontiers in Pharmacology Seminar Series, Department of Pharmacology, University of California Davis.

Conforti L (2010. ) Kv1.3 channel mobility and function in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus .Ion Channel Retreat, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

Conforti L (03-2011. ) The ion channel network at the immunological synapse .Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany.

Conforti L (2012. ) The ion channel network of T lymphocytes in autoimmunity and cancer .Nephrology and Hypertension Seminar Series, University of Cincinnati.

Conforti L (2012. ) The ion channel network in T lymphocytes .Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, University of Cincinnati.

2004 Nominated for the “Women in Physiology Committee” of the American Physiological Society

2000 -2003 AHA Scientist Development Award

1989 -1990 AHA Post-Doctoral Fellowship (Ohio Affiliate)

1988 -1989 Postgraduate Research Fellowship (European Economic Community)

1984 -1987 Postgraduate Fellowship Award (Regione Lombardia, Italy)

2009 Paper featured in "In This Issue" of the Journal of Immunology. "In This Issue" highlights articles that are among the top 10% articles published in the journal

2009 Research projects featured in a radio interview in NPR "Focus on Technology" http://www.wvxu.org/schedule/cincinnatiedition_archiveview.asp?ID=8/2/2009

2009 Mentor Recognition Award NSF REU (Research Experience for Undergraduates) Site Program in Membrane Science, Technology and Bio-Applications, University of Cincinnati

2000 -2003 AHA Scientist Award

1988 -1989 Postgraduate Fellowship Award (Regione Lombardia, Italy)

Peter Hajdu (Postdoctoral ) Advisor Status:In Progress

Ameet Chimote (Postdoctoral ) Advisor Status:In Progress

Zerrin Kuras, Ph.D. (Postdoctoral ) Advisor Status:Completed 08-26-2011

Yeo-Heung Yun, Ph.D. (Postdoctoral ) Advisor Status:Completed 12-01-2009

Nina Boiko, Ph.D. (Postdoctoral ) Advisor Status:Completed 10-31-2007

Vladimir Kucher, Ph.D. (Postdoctoral ) Advisor Status:Completed 02-29-2008

You-Qing Peng, Ph.D. (Postdoctoral ) Advisor Status:Completed 06-21-2006

Peter Szigligeti, M.D., Ph.D. (Postdoctoral ) Advisor Status:Completed 06-30-2005

Jennifer R. Robbins, Ph.D. (Postdoctoral ) Advisor Status:Completed 08-31-2004

Ahmad Anjak, M.D. (Postdoctoral ) Advisor Status:Completed 01-12-2003

Milan Petrovic (Postdoctoral ) Advisor Status:Completed 01-31-2003

Amy Surti (Master ) Advisor Status:Completed 08-01-2012

Steve Shamp (Master ) Advisor Status:Completed 08-19-2011

Kate Mellion (Master ) Advisor Status:Completed 08-12-2010

Brent Boyes (Master ) Advisor Status:Completed 08-15-2008

Stella A. Nicolaou (Doctoral ) Advisor Status:Completed 11-30-2007

Zhu W.Y. (Doctoral ) Supervisor Status:Completed 1997

Nisbet J.W. (Master ) Supervisor Status:Completed 1998

Szilagyi Orsolya (Doctoral ) Advisor 08-31-2012

Geoff Martin Advisor Status:In Progress

Lauren Smith Faulkner (Doctoral ) Committee Member Status:Completed 05-13-2010

Latorya A. Arnold (Doctoral ) Committee Member Status:Completed 05-05-2009

Juwen DuBois (Doctoral ) Committee Member 2012

Jamie Tweedle (Doctoral ) Lab Rotation Preceptor Status:Completed 03-16-2012

Kelsey Dillehay (Doctoral ) Lab Rotation Preceptor Status:Completed 09-11-2009

Scott Gordon (Doctoral ) Lab Rotation Preceptor Status:Completed 03-20-2009

Sun Wook Kim (Doctoral ) Lab Rotation Preceptor Status:Completed 12-01-2008

Victoria Carter (Doctoral ) Lab Rotation Preceptor Status:Completed 03-31-2008

Temiloluwa Adeniyi (Undergrad ) Advisor Status:Completed 08-10-2012

T.H. Thompson (Undergrad ) Advisor Status:In Progress

Erin Armao (Undergrad ) Advisor Status:Completed 06-30-2012

Ryan Fuchs (Undergrad ) Advisor Status:Completed 06-02-2011

Alexandra Schwier (Undergrad ) Advisor Status:Completed 08-20-2010

Mike Butler (Undergrad ) Advisor Status:Completed 03-27-2010

Aimi Toyama (Undergrad ) Advisor Status:Completed 10-21-2009

Kevin Zhu (Undergrad ) Advisor Status:Completed 08-12-2009

Ashley Steckly (Undergrad ) Advisor Status:Completed 08-2008

Eric Hill (Undergrad ) Advisor Status:Completed 08-2007

Kelly Curran (Undergrad ) Advisor Status:Completed 05-01-2004

Dina Mohammad (Undergrad ) Advisor Status:Completed 2001

Blanck L (Undergrad ) Advisor Status:Completed 2002

Hypoxia, Potassium Channels, Immune Cells, Lymphocytes, Oxygen-sensing, systemic lupus eythematosus, autoimmunity, T cell activation, calcium signaling

Member, American Physiological Society (APS) since 2003

Member, American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) 1998-2008

2010 -To Present: Member American Association of Immunologists

2003 -To Present: Member American Physiological Society (APS)

2010 -To Present: Member American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)

1992 Biophysics II teaching a practical class, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Cincinnati.

1996 Molecular Physiology I: Membrane transport proteins (graduate course), “Voltage-gated ion channels involved in membrane repolarization and stabilization”, Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, University of Cincinnati.

1996 Advanced topics in ion channels (graduate course), “Molecular biology of potassium channels”, Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, University of Cincinnati.

1997 Molecular Physiology I: Membrane channels and transporters (graduate course), “Voltage-gated ion channels involved in membrane repolarization and stabilization”, Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, University of Cincinnati.

1997-2002 Molecular Physiology III (graduate course, 4 credit hours), “Regulation of channel activity by oxygen”, Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, University of Cincinnati.

1998-2003 Molecular Physiology I (graduate course, 4 credit hours): Membrane channels and transporters, “Voltage-dependent K channels”, Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, University of Cincinnati.

2003-present Faculty of the Pathobiology and Molecular Medicine Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati.

2004–present Interview students for admission to the Pathobiology and Molecular Medicine graduate program.

2004 Pathobiology and Molecular Medicine Journal Club (2003-2004 winter quarter), Department of Pathology and Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati.

2005-present Faculty in the M.S. in Physiology (a one-year program designed to help college graduates strengthen their academic credentials in preparation for application to U.S. medical schools), Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, University of Cincinnati.

2006-present - Faculty of the Ph.D. in Systems Biology and Physiology, University of Cincinnati.

2006-present Immunology of disease (graduate course #26-PMM-899-001–spring 2006 & 2007). T cell function in autoimmunity.

2007-present Molecular Physiology I (graduate course, 4 credit hours, spring 2007): Membrane channels and transporters, “Voltage-dependent K channels”, Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, University of Cincinnati.

2007 Research Careers (graduate course # 26 MCP 874-fall 2007): “Translational research and working in a clinical department”. A wide range of career options are presented by professionals in field research, Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, University of Cincinnati.

26-PMM-899 IMMUNOL OF DISEASE Level:Graduate

26-MCP-902 HUMAN SYS PHYS I Level:Graduate

26-PMM-721 METHODS BIOMED RES Level:Graduate

26-BE-866 MOLECULAR EPI LAB Level:Graduate

20-BME-680 NANOTECH & NANOMED Level:Graduate

Academic - Medical Sciences Building
Room 6115
Cincinnati  Ohio, 45267
Phone: 513-558-5471
Fax: 513-558-4309
laura.conforti@uc.edu