Our lab is interested in the role that chemosensation plays in regulating physiological processes, particularly in the kidney and the cardiovascular system. We have found that sensory receptors (olfactory receptors, taste receptors, and other G protein-coupled receptors) are expressed in the kidney and in blood vessels, and that individual receptors play functional roles in whole-animal physiology. We are working to understand the role that each receptor plays in whole-animal physiology by using a variety of in vitro (receptor localization, ligand screening) and in vivo (whole-animal physiology) techniques. Some of the receptors we study (Olfr78, Gpr41, Olfr558) signal in response to metabolites produced by the gut microbiota, and thus we are also studying the role of the gut microbiota in renal and cardiovascular function (in particular: blood pressure regulation).
Our Research
Chemosensory GPCRs in the Kidney and Cardiovascular System
Chemosensory GPCRs in the Kidney and Cardiovascular System
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) play important roles in helping the kidney to maintain homeostasis, but, there are many GPCRs which are well-expressed in the kidney but do not have a known functional role. We are interested in uncovering the roles of these “understudied” renal GPCRs. Many of these receptors are “chemosensory” GPCRs – olfactory or taste receptors – thus, we are working to understand how the kidney leverages these powerful chemosensors to help support kidney function. Several of the receptors we study are also expressed in the cardiovascular system, and thus we are also interested in how these receptors help to modulate cardiovascular function.
Microbiome and Blood Pressure Regulation
Microbiome and Blood Pressure Regulation
Several of the GPCRs we study are receptors for metabolites, known as short chain fatty acids, which are made by gut microbes. We also find that short chain fatty acids can influence both blood pressure regulation, and, other aspects of cardiovascular function. Thus, we have developed a strong focus in understanding how host-microbiome interactions influence blood pressure regulation and cardiovascular function in both health and disease.
Diversity and Inclusion
The Pluznick Lab highly values diversity, equity, and inclusion. We recognize that we do better and more creative science when we include individuals with diverse perspectives and backgrounds: diverse perspectives help to drive excellence, whereas decreased diversity represents the loss of talent. To that end, it is the responsibility of every lab member to ensure that we respect, protect, and celebrate diversity and inclusion within our lab (including diversity of race, culture, nationality, sex, gender, age, religion, disability, and sexual orientation, among others). Jen has a zero-tolerance policy for speech or behaviors which are in opposition to these values.
