My laboratory-based research program is focused on mechanisms of liver cell death, especially apoptosis. We employ disease relevant models to unravel the fundamental cellular processes contributing to liver injury during cholestasis and ischemic/reperfusion injury. In addition, we are also interested in the mechanisms by which cancer cells escape from cell death in order to undergo malignant transformation and metastases.

Significance of Research

Inhibition of apoptosis is a viable therapeutic strategy for minimizing liver injury during cholestasis, viral, autoimmune, and toxic liver diseases. Selective induction of apoptosis in transformed cells is also a goal for treating advanced hepatobiliary malignancies. Fundamental mechanistic insights into the mechanisms of liver cell apoptosis may help to provide rational pharmacologic approaches for the treatment of inflammatory and malignant hepatobiliary diseases.

Basic Research

• Role of death receptors in hepatocyte apoptosis
• Carcinogenesis of biliary epithelia

Clinical Research

I develop and participate in clinical research protocols for the treatment of hepatobiliary neoplasia. Current protocols relate to innovative multidisciplinary efforts in the diagnosis and treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma. We also participate in unique single institution and multi-institution treatment protocols for these diseases.

• Hepatobiliary neoplasia
• Hepatocellular cancer
• Cholangiocarcinoma