Grant Simmons

We specialize in the manufacture of highly purified native animal and human proteins and enzymes for use in clinical diagnostic manufacturing, analytical research, antibody production, molecular biology, cell culture, and drug discovery among others.

Focused on developing innovative assays and biosensors needed by academic research laboratories, point of care testing, pharmaceutical companies, as well as medical and environmental research markets. These assays will be used to quantify many of the most biologically and therapeutically important macromolecules, including ligands, proteins, protein complexes, bacteria, fungi and viruses. • Implemented a phage display system to deliver high quality antibodies. • Validated, purified, and refolded antibodies • Antibody engineering to increase affinity and specificity. • Cloned, expressed, and purified Hepatitis C Virus antigens utilized in a HCV detection immunoassay. • Certified ISO 9001:2008 Internal Auditor

• Worked in the Protein Expression and Purification (PEP) Group. • Responsible for all aspects of cloning, expression and purification of proteins from Escherichia coli and Bacillus thuringiensis. • Cloned ~150 expression constructs including mutants (SNPs, additions, subtractions, and truncations), toxic genes, and disabled proteins. • Involved in a promoter discovery project collaboration to generate a stronger protein expression vector.

• Investigated the stromal influences on brain tumor growth using a genetically engineered mouse model of Neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1). • Found microglia ablation reduces proliferation in Nf1 optic glioma during both tumor maintenance and tumor development. • Identified the developmental window during which microglia are increased in the Nf1+/- optic nerve. • Demonstrated that microglia accumulation reflects delayed microglia dispersion as CX3CR1 (involved in microglia migration) expression is reduced in optic nerves of Nf1+/- mice.

• Dissertation Title: Determining the Role of the Cell Adhesion Molecule Echinoid in Cell Fate Decisions and Cell Proliferation during Drosophila Eye Development. • Determined Echinoid protein-protein interactions during cell signaling and endocytosis. • Found Echinoid to regulate Notch/Delta signaling by blocking Delta endocytosis. • Discovered a novel interaction with Echinoid and the Hippo signaling pathway.