Author: Jeffrey D. Pressly, Ph.D.
Course Year: 2022
In the field of renal physiology, the “Origins of Renal Physiology” stands as a beacon, illuminating the intricate concepts of physiological homeostasis. This unique offering among national renal short courses was a transformative experience during my fellowship training and early career, challenging and expanding my understanding in ways that regular clinical training schedules often fell short of. The meticulously organized laboratory modules were a journey into the heart of renal physiology. We explored topics such as glomerular filtration rate, proximal tubule function, salt balance and secretion, distal nephron sodium transport, water homeostasis, and calcium oxalate stones. I immersed myself in three of these rotations, each a two-day intensive endeavor of experimental work, analysis, and presentation.
Hands-on experience was the cornerstone of this journey. Classical physiological models and modern reductionist approaches were my tools, confocal microscopy my lens into the complex mechanisms underscoring renal function. This practical experience was more than just learning; it was a forging process, solidifying my understanding of renal physiology. The glomerular module was a masterstroke, a personal highlight. Here, the ingenious design and utilization of a morpholino to knock down OSBPL7, a protein I had been studying, came into play. This was a result of a collaboration with one of the instructors, Dr. Mario Schiffer, prior to the course. Microinjections and data analysis were performed by us, the attendees, leading to statistically significant and reproducible results. OSBPL7 knockdown in transgenic zebrafish embryos led to decreased eye fluorescence and increased edema, indicating proteinuria. This was not just a valuable tool, but an extraordinary learning experience, a testament to the practical and impactful nature of the course. This personally tailored experience led to publishable data.
Networking and mentorship were woven into the fabric of this experience. Close interactions with senior investigators in renal physiology, shared meals in the dining hall, and impromptu discussions about career goals enriched my perspective. Collaborating with other fellows from different programs and sharing insights into renal research broadened my horizons. I am particularly grateful to Dr. Hermann Haller, director of MDIBL and my mentor, under whose lab I worked alongside Yannic Becker, Patricia Schroder, and Lynne Beverly-Staggs. Their guidance and support were instrumental in my training and work. The support I received from Bobbi Harris, director of campus services, and Amy Richards, who helped coordinate my stay, was invaluable. Their efforts made my travel and accommodation seamless, allowing me to focus on my learning and research. Dr. Bryce Maclver recruited me to come back and teach the course. Now, I look forward to upcoming summers at MDIBL, where I will be teaching these techniques to PhD students and postdocs, further extending the reach and impact of this invaluable experience.
Financial support from a research education grant from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases was instrumental in enabling my participation in the course. This support covered the tuition for US residents and fellows, a testament to the commitment to fostering education and research in this field. In conclusion, the course profoundly impacted my fellowship training and early career. It was more than an educational journey; it was a platform for innovation and collaboration, a solid foundation in renal physiology, and a forge for practical research skills. The hands-on experience, particularly during the glomerular module, was a highlight that continues to inform my work and approach to renal medicine. This transformative experience was not just a stepping stone, but a launching pad, leaving a lasting impact on my career.
Breathtakingly picturesque scenery at MDIBL
Reviewed by: Srinath Yadlapalli, M.D, William Jeffrey, M.D, Matthew, Sparks, M.D
