Sarah Short, PhD

Dr. Short’s research focus has shifted to the role glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPx1). GPx1 is one of the most widely expressed antioxidant proteins in the body, yet its role in the intestine is largely unknown. Interestingly, while antioxidant proteins are mostly thought to protect the intestine in the setting of inflammatory bowel disease and colitis-associated cancer, Dr. Short’s preliminary data show that mice without GPx1 are protected from colitis. Her research aims to more accurately define how GPx1, antioxidant systems, and ROS contribute to intestinal homeostasis and disease, as well as evaluate whether these pathways can be targeted in the setting of gastrointestinal disease. Dr. Short’s career goal is to run an independent laboratory as a tenure-track faulty member, and she is currently funded by a K01 award from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, and the American Gastroenterological Association to aid this transition.