My interest in renal pathology started early in my training. This unique interest led me to seek expanded training and broader investigative opportunities abroad. My major clinical interest is in the renal manifestations of nephrotic syndrome and classification of podocytopathies. Beyond my publications and investigations on nephrotic syndrome, I was a participant in clinical trials for drug development for Fabry’s disease; first as a special employee for the FDA and later as a pathologist for the pharmaceutical industry. These opportunities extended my skills within both the regulatory requirements of drug discovery and the design of pathology criteria applicable from the perspective of pharmaceutical companies, including novel digital pathology-based protocols.
My major research interest is in the renal manifestations of nephrotic syndrome, with particular attention to the pathogenesis of podocytopathies, in both human renal biopsies and animal models. My initial interests in the underlying causes of glomerular diseases and better classifying podocytopathies has accompanied my entire career. Over the years, it has evolved into an interest in precision medicine, reflected by my active participation and contribution to the Kidney Precision Medicine Program (KPMP). My professional growth in this second phase of my career is defined by clinical research in the setting of large consortia and the implementation of digital pathology as a tool for tissue interrogation. I have recently collaborated with computational engineers and pathology informaticists to explore new application of computational imaging in renal diseases. This effort aims to utilize deep learning strategies to enable discovery of structural changes that can reveal molecular mechanisms or prognostic biomarkers.
Duke Health contracts with most major health insurance carriers and transplant networks, including the ones listed below. Before scheduling your appointment, we strongly recommend you contact your insurance company to verify that the Duke Health location or provider you plan to visit is included in your network. Your insurance company will also be able to inform you of any co-payments, co–insurances, or deductibles that will be your responsibility. If you proceed in scheduling an appointment and your health insurance benefits do not participate with Duke, your out of pocket liability may be higher. We will contact you regarding your coverage and patient liability. If you are uninsured, learn more about our financial assistance policy.
This faculty member (or a member of their immediate family) has reported outside activities with the companies or institutions listed below. This information has been reported to the health system leadership and, when appropriate, management plans are in place to address potential conflicts of interest.