David A. Rudnick, M.D., Ph.D.

RESEARCH INTEREST

Our laboratory is interested in understanding the molecular signaling mechanisms that underlie the remarkable regenerative potential of the liver. In addition to liver mass being precisely regulated with respect to animal size in health, the liver is also able to regenerate the anatomic and functional deficits incurred by many forms of injury or disease (e.g. toxin exposure, trauma, infection). We have used partial hepatectomy in mice treated with pharmacolgical modulators or genetic manipulation of various signal transduction pathways to further elucidate the signaling mechanisms at work during regeneration. We are also applying state-of-the-art functional genomic and proteomic methodologies to study this process. Ultimately, we hope these efforts lead to the development of novel therapeutic interventions to prevent or reverse the outcomes of chronic liver disease in pediatric patients.

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS