LIVER DISEASE
affects more than 4 million people in the United States, leading to over 40,000 deaths annually. It is estimated that up to 30% of individuals with advanced liver disease (cirrhosis) and up to 20% of children and adults awaiting liver transplantation suffer from liver disease of unknown etiology.
LIVER: a Multitalented Organ
The liver is the largest solid organ in the human body and performs a remarkably diverse array of functions that are essential for survival.
01. The liver plays a critical role in energy homeostasis.
02. The liver is the source of the vast majority of abundant plasma proteins.
03. The liver clears or detoxifies a diverse array of molecules absorbed from the gut, and metabolizes for elimination products of catabolism in the systemic circulation.
Genes,
Genomes
and
Liver Pathogenesis
Our studies begin with adults and children with liver disease of unknown etiology,
and as a team, we have identified five novel liver genetic liver disease, providing new insights into the underlying molecular pathogenesis. This knowledge advances patient care and our understanding of liver biology.
Our overarching goal is to continue to discover new genes important in liver function both in health and disease and to develop cell-based and mouse models to determine the specific mechanisms linking mutant gene to liver pathology, leading to new diagnostic and therapeutic tools.
interested in BRINGING YOUR EXPERTISE, INDIVIDUALITY AND CREATIVITY TO LIVER RESEARCH?
Join Us!
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