Dr. Benjamin Ko

Biography

Dr. Benjamin S. Ko is an Associate Professor in the Department of Medicine at the University of Chicago. He is a dedicated physiologist and educator with extensive studies focused on sodium and calcium transport in the kidney, particularly as it relates to kidney stone disease. His integrated approach to scholarship encompasses both basic science and translational research, aiming to deepen the understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind renal tubular transport of cations in humans. Utilizing urinary exosomal analyses and various biochemical techniques, Dr. Ko characterizes the intricate regulation of sodium and calcium homeostasis. His current research projects investigate the molecular mechanisms contributing to calcium kidney stone formation and the hormonal regulators of sodium chloride co-transporters. Dr. Ko is also significantly involved in medical education for pre-med, medical, resident, and fellow trainees. He is a fellow of the Academy of Distinguished Medical Educators and serves as co-director of the Tissues, Cell, and Organ Physiology Course at the Pritzker School of Medicine. Nationally, he directs the American Society of Nephrology’s Tutored Research Education Kidney Scholars (TREKS) program at the University of Chicago.

Research Interests

Experience