Research in my laboratory focuses on defining the molecular mechanisms and genetic pathways by which animal cells sense and maintain salt and water balance. Our studies employ the roundworm C. elegans, a non-mammalian model organism that provides powerful experimental advantages for defining the genetic bases of fundamental physiological processes. These advantages include a fully sequenced genome, genetic tractability, and ease and economy of manipulating gene function. Our studies employ multiple methodological approaches including quantitative light and electron microscopy, molecular biology, functional genomics analyses, forward genetic screening, and genome-wide RNA interference screening. Recent work in my laboratory has shown that cell dehydration causes rapid damage to cytoplasmic proteins. Ongoing studies focus on defining the mechanisms utilized by cells to detect, degrade, and repair proteins damaged by acute dehydration. We are also defining the mechanisms utilized by cells to protect proteins from damage during prolonged exposure to dehydrating conditions and the sensing and signaling pathways that activate genes required for cellular salt and water balance.

 pathology