Researchers in biochemistry investigate the metabolic processes affecting nutrients and cellular components. This includes the biosynthesis, processing, intracellular trafficking and disposal of biomolecules such as proteins and lipids. It also includes studies on the maintenance of intracellular homeostasis involving bioenergetics and redox status. Major foci are the regulatory mechanisms of homeostasis and adaptation to changes of the microenvironment such as nutrient depletion or disease conditions; signaling pathways in physiological and pathological conditions; and pathological accumulation of macromolecules or metabolites from enzyme defects. The long-term goal of much of this work in our department is to identify molecular targets for the prevention and treatment of human disease. Additional research interests include studies of drug disposal, pharmacokinetics, and mechanisms of drug resistance. Biology faculty in this research area collaborate with investigators in the Sydney Kimmel Cancer Center, pharmaceutical industries such as GlaxoSmithKline, and other institutes worldwide.