My research uses physiological approaches to understand the mechanistic steps of disease. For example, the lab is currently investigating how elevated pressure leads to neuronal death, focusing on ATP release, pannexin hemichannels, P2X7 receptors, NMDA receptors and the neuroprotective actions of A3 adenosine receptors. The role of these components in cytokine release is also being probed. In addition, the lab is exploring the physiology of lysosomes, with investigations into the regulation of lysosomal pH in health and disease. Pharmacological and molecular manipulation of lysosomal Cl- channels such as CFTR and CLC-7 is being used to reacidify lysosomes and improve degradative activity in aging and diseased cells.

HONORS / CREDENTIALS
1988 Fight for Sight Ph.D. Studentship Award
1992 Royal National Institute for the Blind Fellowship
1995 NRSA Fellowship in Neuroscience
1996 NRSA Fellowship in Respiratory Physiology
2003 University Research Foundation Award