Geibel Lab

Our primary focus is on real time monitoring of ion transport mechanisms in epithelia, using high-resolution microscopy. One of the crucial problems facing all epithelial cells is the control of the intracellular milieu. In an effort to maintain ionic homeostasis, epithelial cells have devised a variety of ion channels, transport proteins, and carriers to regulate and maintain the intracellular ionic concentrations. To further understand how ions are transported in epithelial cells, we have developed a variety of optical techniques to continuously monitor intracellular ionic concentrations in real time.

Using high-resolution video or confocal microscopy we are presently able to monitor intracellular Ca2+, Na+, K+, Cl-, pH, and membrane potential. We are currently investigating various aspects of renal tubule and gastric tissue ion transport in intact renal tubules and gastric glands. We also are characterizing the secretory and reabsorptive properties of the colonic crypt, with a special focus on diarrheal disease.