Dr. Judge’s research is focused on understanding the molecular signaling pathways that cause skeletal muscle atrophy during periods of muscle disuse (cast immobilization), and during cancer, sepsis, peripheral arterial disease, and aging. In addition, ongoing work in his lab seeks to understand the role that specific proteins play in regulating muscle regrowth following atrophying conditions. Currently funded projects are centered on understanding the post translational regulation of two transcription factor families that are commonly upregulated during multiple conditions of muscle wasting: forkhead boxO (Foxo) and nuclear factor B (NF-B). In addition, ongoing work is focused on the heat shock protein (Hsp) family, and understanding the mechanisms by which Hsps regulate various cell signaling pathways involved in the regulation of muscle mass. Dr. Judge’s lab uses genetic (gene transfer, transgenics, and knockouts) and pharmacological approaches to manipulate specific proteins within these signaling pathways of interest to determine the effect on gene transcription, muscle fiber size, and muscle function. The lab uses the translational approach of studying cultured muscle cells, whole muscle, and human biopsies to comprehensively address these research questions.