Derek McKay
Professor
Contact information
Location
Research
Research areas
- Intestine
- Permeability
- Metabolic stress
- Epithelium
- Helminth parasite
- Mucosal immunology
- Mitochondrial dynamics
- Adherent-invasive E. coli
Research Activities
Research in my laboratory focuses on the control of inflammation in the intestine and the regulation of epithelial permeability. Three major projects are ongoing. First, we examine the impact of metabolic stress, induced by dinitrophenol, and commensal bacteria on the form and function of epithelial monolayers in vitro, paying particular attention to their barrier properties and ability to release cytokines/growth factors. Second, we assess mitochondrial dynamics (fusion and fission) in the context of inflammation and microbial pathogens. Third, we employ the rat tapeworm, Hymenolepis diminuta, in murine models of colonic inflammation to elucidate novel anti-inflammatory mechanisms and pathways. As a component of the latter, we are extracting and characterising the immuno-regulatory properties of molecules from the adult tapeworm.
Administrative Assistant
Jennifer McCarthy
jdmccart@ucalgary.ca
403-220-3719