Research

What We Do 

(Possible graduate student projects listed)

Research Focus 1 (non-coding RNAs and the kidney) 

- MicroRNAs in hormonal regulation of sodium transport in the kidney

- MicroRNAs and sex differences in kidney disease

We are studying the regulation of non-coding RNAs, such as microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), by hormones. We are using various techniques to explore the impact of steroid hormones (estrogen and aldosterone) on miRNA regulation in the kidney, and to discover new protein targets that affect ion transport. 

Graduate Student Projects 

1) miRNA knockout/gain-of-function mice and sodium regulation in the kidney.

2) Sex differences in miRNA regulation.

3) Analysis of DeepSeq/RNASeq data to identify hormonally regulated miRNAs and lncRNAs in the kidney.

4) Physiological characterization of miR targets in aldosterone-mediated ENaC regulation.

5) Role of insulin in miRNA regulation in the distal nephron, links to diabetes.

6) Estrogen regulation of miRNAs.

Research Focus 2 

Sex-specific microRNA regulation of Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)

We are investigating how the miR-17~92 microRNA cluster and related non-coding RNA pathways contribute to sex differences in the kidney's response to acute injury. Male and female kidneys respond differently to ischemic and toxic insults, and we are working to define the molecular basis for this divergence — with the long-term goal of identifying potential therapeutic targets for AKI.

Research Focus 3 

Regulation of the Potassium Transport in Human Airway

In collaboration with the Devor lab, we assist in investigating the role of potassium channels in human disease, with a particular focus on cystic fibrosis. The modulation of potassium transporters by clinically relevant pharmaceuticals in the airway, vasculature, musculature, and neurons is being investigated in this collaboration.