Heather Francis
Professor of MedicineGastroenterology, Biochemistry, Medical Physiology
ude[dot]ui[at]cnarfaeh
Mast cell regulation of cholestatic liver injury, liver cancer and liver regeneration
The focus of my work lies in identifying targetable drugs/compounds that can improve patient outcome including amelioration of disease-related symptoms and progression of pathogenesis. We have found that several over the counter drugs can block the pathophysiological features of cholestatic liver injury and liver cancer. These drugs include cromolyn sodium and the anti-histamines, ranitidine and mepyramine. In addition, we have found that patients with cholestatic liver disease and liver cancer have increased abundance of hepatic mast cells and higher levels of circulating histamine, which may be a good indicator of disease. My research focuses on evidence-based studies and by using both human samples and animal models of disease, there is a high inter/cross disciplinary aspect to the work. My overall goal is to absolutely make patients lives easier and disease more manageable.