Evan Ray, MD, PhD

Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, Renal-Electrolyte Division
University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine

Research Interests

The Ray lab’s research focuses on mechanisms of mineral homeostasis, in particular Mg²⁺ and Ca²⁺. We are examining handling of these minerals by the kidney and intestines, the transporters involved, and the regulation of those transporters. Additionally, we are examining the consequences of Mg²⁺ and Ca²⁺ depletion, including effects on bone health and effects on progeny of mineral-depleted mothers.

Technique Expertise or Resources to share

We use cell culture to examine interaction of mineral transporters and regulatory proteins using biochemical techniques.  We use genetically modified mice to elucidate the importance of different molecular participants in mineral handling.  We phenotype these mice by measuring mineral concentrations in bodily fluids (urine, plasma, and breastmilk), western blot and ELISA to measure protein expression, and micro-CT to examine bone structure.

Keywords

Magnesium, calcium, mucin, MUC1, Trp channel, ion channel, endocytosis, lactation, nursing, pregnancy, bone, osteoporosis, perinatal programming.