USF Genomics Program
Stephen Liggett, MD
Senior Associate Vice President for Research, USF Health
Professor, Internal Medicine, Molecular Pharmacology & Physiology
Contact Info
- Office: MDD 712
- Academic Email: sliggett@usf.edu
- Academic Phone: (813) 974-7715
- View My C.V.
Education
- MD, Medicine, University of Miami School of Medicine, 1982
Biography
Dr. Liggett's lab studies the genetics, genomics, and molecular and cellular biology of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs). He discovered the first nonsynonymous polymorphism of a GPCR, subsequently defining its function in cells and genetically modified mice. GPCRs are the targets of ~50% of currently prescribed drugs. Delineation for the extensive variability within the superfamily opened the modern era of pharmacogenomics, where drug targets are now considered. The laboratory studies GPCRs in relation to heart and lung disease, but casts a broad net to understand inter-individual variability. For example, the group performed complete genome sequencing of all known human rhinoviruses. This led to superimposition of crystal structures, optimal-energy RNA conformation predictions, and phylogeny to ascertain the basis of rhinovirus-induced GPCR dysfunction and asthma pathogenesis.