Directory of Experts
Details for Dr David Sheppard
| Personal details | |
| Name | Dr David Sheppard |
| Job title | Reader |
| Department | School of Physiology and Pharmacology University of Bristol |
| Contact details | This expert can be contacted via the University of Bristol Public Relations
Office. To help us deal with your request, please mention the Directory of Experts when contacting the Public Relations Office. work+44 (0)117 928 7777 email: public-relations@bristol.ac.uk |
| Qualifications | BSc(Brad), PhD(Cantab) |
| Professional details | |
| Membership of professional bodies | The Physiological Society The Society of General Physiologists The Biophysical Society The European Cystic Fibrosis Society |
| Keywords | cystic fibrosis CFTR chloride ion channels epithelial ion transport drug therapy |
| Areas of expertise | I investigate the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), the protein product of the gene defective in cystic fibrosis. CFTR is found in cells that line ducts and tubes within the body. It provides a pathway for salt movement and controls the quantity and composition of fluids in ducts and tubes. In my studies of CFTR, I have three specific research goals: (i) To understand the relationship between CFTR structure and its role in salt movements. (ii) To learn how genetic defects that cause CF disrupt CFTR function. (iii) To identify new regulators of CFTR that might prove to be of value in the treatment of disease. This research is important for understanding how salt and water are transported. This knowledge might lead to better drugs to treat cystic fibrosis and related diseases. |