My interest is in the field of clinical enteric neuroscience research. Specifically, this involves the study of physiology and pathophysiology of human gastrointestinal motor and sensory functions, and the development of novel therapeutic approaches.

The research work is conducted in the Clinical Research Unit (CRU) (NIH RR 00585), where facilites are available for endoscopic, intubated, and imaging studies using well validated techniques. The same techniques have led to the development of a portfolio of experimental medicine approaches to evaluate novel therapies, which include: endoscopy, fluoroscopy, gastrointestinal and colonic transit, colonic biomechanical properties and sensory testing, and SPECT imaging to measure gastric volumes. All equipment are dedicated 100% time to research. Mechanisms of specific interest to the lab investigators are alpha-2 adrenergic (NIH ROI funded studies), and serotonergic control of gut sensorimotor functions. Lab members collaborate with colleagues in:

• basic enteric neuroscience (Drs. JH Szurszewski, G Farrugia)
• health sciences research (epidemiology, biostatistics with Drs. GR Locke, NJ Talley and AR Zinsmeister)
• molecular genetics (pharmacogenetics with Dr. R Urrutia)
• diabetes mellitus and obesity (hormmonal control, incretins, role of stomach in glycemic control with Drs. RA Rizza and MD Jensen)
• autonomic neuropathy (with Dr. PA Low)

Research trainees participate in the Mayo Graduate School program, particularly in the Masters Degree in Clinical Research. The lab PI is also a recipient of a K24 (mentorship, mid-career award) from the NIH, and serves as mentor for junior staff and medical trainees in the field of Clinical Enteric Neuroscience Research.