Christopher M. Dekaney, PhD

Research Summary

The primary focus for the Dekaney lab is studying and understanding mechanisms that influence intestinal stem cell proliferative status, particularly following damage. Current lines of study involve delineating: 1) the roles that Paneth cells, from the intestinal epithelium, play in epithelial repair – particularly within the context of providing a stem cell niche, 2) how enteric bacteria influence damage and repair of the intestinal mucosa – particularly communication between enteric bacteria and resident leukocytes within the lamina propria, and 3) the influence growth factors have on repair – particularly DNA damage repair and stem cell expansion. Delineating how these compartments influence mucosal damage and repair will not only provide a better understanding the mechanisms involved in these processes, but will also lead to therapies that can be used clinically to minimize such damage and potentially increase efficacy of chemotherapy and radiation strategies for treating cancer.

Relevance of Research to CGIBD Mission: Dr. Dekaney studies intestinal stem cells which are relevant to the CGIBD them of Regenerative Medicine/Repair. He is a previous P/F awardee.  His students and postdocs enter our research and poster competitions.

CGIBD Focus Area(s):  Regenerative Medicine/Repair

Pilot and Feasibility Award 2007

Collaborators:  Henning, Lund [these are former members who moved (Lund) or about to retire (Henning)].