David B. Couch, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Guyton 330A
(601) 984-1611
DCouch@pharmacology.umsmed.edu

Research Interests

Cellular DNA can react with a variety of chemical compounds, including endogenous agents as well as those found in the environment. Various DNA repair pathways exist to maintain the fidelity of the genome, but unrepaired or misrepaired modifications of DNA can lead to mutations and contribute to many health problems, including cancer. In general, I am interested in the mechanisms by which chemical agents can produce gene mutations and chromosome damage and their effect on DNA repair. Currently, the means by which morphine interferes with inducible repair and damage tolerance processes is under investigation.

Selected Publications

Sawant SG, Couch DB (1995): Induction of micronuclei in murine lymphocytes by morphine. Environmental and Molecular Mutagenesis 25: 270-283.

Couch DB, Sawant SG (1995): The clastogenicity of morphine sulfate in vivo. Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology 373: 123-130.

Couch DB (1996): Carcinogenesis: basic principles. Drug and Chemical Toxicology 19: 133-148.

Sawant, SG, Kozlowski RS, Couch DB (2001): The role of adrenal corticosteroids in induction of micronuclei by morphine. Mutation Research 498: 129-133.

Couch DB, Baker RC (2002): Ethanol-enhanced cytotoxicity of alkylating agents. Alcohol: Clinical and Experimental Research 26: 381-385.

Couch DB, (2005) Alcohol and alkylating agents. Comprehensive Handbook of Alcohol Related Pathology, Volume 2. VR Preedy and PP Watson, eds. Elsevier Ltd., 1041-1047.