Synopsis
In my research, I hope to continue to study and contribute to both basic understanding of molecular mechanisms of disease and unmet health needs. The research of post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression is lagging behind other fields in molecular biology, despite obvious translational potential. I believe this is due to the complexity of interactions between RNA-binding proteins, non-coding RNA and their targets. I intend to apply and develop sophisticated tools to decipher the targets and function of RNA-binding proteins, with potential to contribute to the health of millions of kidney patients. Specifically, i aim to:
1. decipher basic mechanisms leading to phenotypic variability in ADPKD and follow those with translational potential;
2. reveal the role of specific miRNA in maintaining podocyte viability and function, to contribute to our understanding of, and our ability to manipulate, glomerular disorders;
3. expose small RNA biomarkers useful for the diagnosis and management of patients with kidney diseases.