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Deborah Nelson is a Professor at the University of Chicago, where her research focuses on the role of ion channels in disease processes. Her lab investigates the involvement of anion channels in innate immune processes, neural secretion, and bone formation, as well as the processing of pancreatic hormones. To characterize channel function, they use a variety of advanced tools including super-resolution microscopy, microfluidics, optogenetics, patch clamp electrophysiology, live cell fluorescence microscopy, and basic biochemical techniques. Nelson's research also includes the development of mouse models with channel mutations via CRISPR-Cas gene editing to examine the functional loss of channels in various organ contexts. Her work addresses the significance of anion channels in cellular functions that impact organellar activity, vesicle content, and neuronal inhibition at the molecular level. Notably, research findings indicate that the loss of channel function can lead to severe conditions such as pulmonary infections in cystic fibrosis, osteoporosis, and complex diabetes-related diseases. Furthermore, her lab utilizes microfluidic devices to visualize and quantitate the release of extracellular vesicles from immune cells, facilitating the targeted delivery of therapeutic molecules aimed at restoring cellular function. Overall, Nelson's research aims to enhance the understanding of cellular processes at the organellar level, employing innovative models and methods.
Department of Philosophy