Description of Research Expertise

The coordination of absorption, digestion, and motility of the intestine is orchestrated by the enteroendocrine cells. These cells are interspersed in the epithelial lining of the intestine in order to sense and process nutrients. Infants born without the intestinal endocrine cells have a severe malabsorptive diarrhea that is fatal without intravenous nutrition. Although this congenital diarrheal disorder has been described for some time, the mechanism for the malabsorption has not been elucidated. My work focuses on both the development of enteroendocrine cells and studies mouse models of congenital diarrhea to identify new therapeutic targets.

Description of Clinical Expertise

My clinical interests span a wide range of gastrointestinal disorders including celiac disease, irritable bowel syndrome, failure to thrive, and inflammatory bowel disease. Particularly, I specialize in taking care of children with congenital diarrheal disorders and short bowel syndrome. I am a member of The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia's Intestinal Rehabilitation Program (IRP).