Daniel Mickelson Email & Phone Number

Develop a new Viral Vector Core facility within the Department of Neuroscience, Institute for Translational Neuroscience, to assist investigators with the expression of their gene of interest in specific tissues or cell types. Consult with individual Principle Investigators to determine the optimal virus vector, viral subtype, promoter elements and cloning strategies for their specific study requirements. Design and construct recombinant adeno-associated virus and lentivirus vectors for targeted expression both in vitro and in vivo. Maintain multiple eucarytic cell lines for virus production and titration.

Primary scientist on discovery project aimed at understanding and disrupting subunit dimerization of IL-23 and IL-12. In-depth analysis of complex cytokine expression profiles in response to single and composite exposure to immune system agonists. Mechanism of action studies of Toll-like receptors and how cell surface interactions participate in signaling cascades. Analysis of cytokine response and regulation by small immune response molecules (IRM). Optimize conjugation protocols linking IRMs to antibodies and antigens for use in oncology and immunology projects. Develop and validate new phosphodiesterase IV (PDE4) inhibition assay for screening drug candidate molecules. Study multiple drug resistance related to treatment of oncology patients as well as antibiotic resistance. Trained and practiced in Six Sigma methodology.

Lead laboratory scientist on multiple research projects studying the evolution and biochemical processes of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus. Successfully sequenced the entire genome of five different strain isolates of the virus, as well as subgenomic regions of others. Generated significant data regarding the role of various non-coding genomic elements on viral RNA transcription and translation. Directed and assisted two junior laboratory workers and one post-doc with related projects.

Greater Minneapolis-St. Paul Area

Generated transgenic mice expressing several porcine and viral proteins in the milk of lactating females. Designed and performed experiments studying the levels of protein produced in the milk and methods to purify biologically active molecules.

Greater Minneapolis-St. Paul Area

Senior scientist in a leading cell adhesion laboratory studying the role of matrix proteins and cell surface receptors on melanoma metastasis. Designed new solid phase assays for analyzing cell-protein interactions. Cloned and expressed cell surface and matrix molecules which were used in functional assays. Generated and utilized receptor antibodies in adhesion and motility assays as well as cell and tissue staining studies. Purified cell surface proteoglycans and analyzed their role in metastasis. Maintained laboratory cell lines.