Research Interest
Role of Chemical Modifications in RNA Binding Protein and mRNA Processing
Our lab is interested in understanding how chemical modifications in RNA binding proteins play a role in regulating alternative splicing of premature messenger RNA transcripts and in turn, tissue specific gene expression patterns. We use the polypyrimidine tract binding protein family as a model system to carry out our studies. In our research about RNA binding protein function, we strive to understand these two areas:
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1) Role of phosphate modifications
2) Role of acetyl modifications
We use a combination of molecular biology, biochemistry and cell biology techniques to carry out our studies.
Recent News
Lab Members Attend 2026 Biotech Symposium
On January 24, Gustavo Salgado and Isaac Maldonado presented at the CSU Biotechnology Symposium, hosted by CSULA.
February 4, 2026
Edrin Astillero Presents at CABSCon 10
Edrin Astillero presented his poster, "Discrete Phosphorylation Affects the Subcellular Localization of a Neuron Specific Splicing Factor", at CABSCON10, hosted by CSU Fullerton.
December 5, 2025
NIH R16 Award
Dr. Keppetipola has received an NIH R16 Award to continue funding research. With this grant, she hopes to continue to investigate the affects of post translational modifications on the function of key PTB proteins.
December 2, 2025
Edrin Astillero SCCUR Poster Presentation
Edrin Astillero presented his poster, "Discrete Phosphorylation Affects the Subcellular Localization of a Neuron Specific Splicing Factor", during the annual SCCUR Symposium held at CSU Channel Islands.
November 22, 2025
John Baker's Thesis Defense
John Baker presented his Master's Thesis, "Determining the Role of Phosphorylation in RNA Binding Protein Function." Congratulations and thank you for all of your hard work, John!
November 20, 2025