| Epithelial Cell and Hepatocyte Transport
Two of the major functions of the gastrointestinal tract are the absorption of nutrients from the intestine and removal of toxic metabolic byproducts from the blood. At the same time, the epithelial cells must provide a secure barrier from other potentially harmful intestinal contents. Scientists in the DHCoE are studying the mechanisms through which intestinal epithelial cells and hepatocytes are able to specifically transport molecules across their cell membranes. A major focus of this work is the transport of biologically important metals.Biological metals and metalloproteins play critical roles in the pathogenesis of human disease, the regulation of processes controlling mitogenesis and inflammation, and maintenance of proper physiology. Our faculty study the regulation of genes critically important in carcinogenesis and inflammatory diseases, and the biological processes of inorganic and heme iron metabolism in health and disease. |
Faculty