GXD Overview
Mammals are equipped with an extraordinarily versatile system of metabolic enzymes and transport proteins that act on drugs and other xenobiotics, converting them either to benign, inactive metabolites, or transferring them across biological membranes against a concentration gradient and promoting net excretion from the body. A major emphasis of research from GXD investigators is focused on understanding the source of variability in biotransformation and transporter processes and how this defines individual susceptibility to the adverse effects of directly toxic or pro-toxic molecules. Factors that influence individual susceptibility to xenobiotic toxicity by modulating biotransformation or transporter activity include genetic determinants, previous exposure to enzyme/transporter inducing, inhibiting or activating substances, and tissue- and developmental-specific expression.
GXD Connections
Eighteen researchers affiliated with the CEEH are working in this area of research emphasis (9 Core EHS Investigators and 9 CTS Investigators). For example, Ken Thummel and Jonathan Himmelfarb are interested in the mechanisms by which drugs cause harm to the kidneys. Allan Rettie, David Eaton, Evan Gallagher, and Sidney Nelson are studying the liver as a target for xenobiotic toxicity.
Click HERE for a list of all investigators affiliated with the CEEH, organized by primary ARE affiliation.
Focus Area Leader
Dr. Evan Gallagher
UW DEOHS
evang3@u.washington.edu
206-616-4739