Richard T. Mathias

Research

HEART

The heart project is to study the mechanisms regulating the transmural gradient in Na/K pump activity, and the purpose of the gradient. Our hypothesis on mechanism is: a transmural autocrine angiotensin system, that responds to load, regulates Na/K pump activity. Our hypothesis on purpose is: the pump gradient exists to establish a transmural gradient in calcium handling and contractility, with the endocardium seeing the greatest load and having the highest contractility. Our studies test these hypotheses. Moreover, the autocrine angiotensin system is involved in both electrical and structural remodeling, which occur during heart failure. A better understanding of this system would therefore allow preventative measures that could avoid the negative consequences of remodeling.

LENS

The lens project focuses on the circulation of salt and water therough and around the lens.  Our hypothesis is that spatially separate ion transport systems generate a circulation of salt, which through osmosis, generate a circulation of fluid.  The circulation of fluid provides an internal micro circulatory system for the avascular lens. This system brings nutrients and anti-oxidants to central fiber cells and carries waste products to surface epithelial cells where they can be broken down or eliminated.  Associated with the circulation of salt, there are internal spatial gradients in ion concentrations and voltage, whereas associated with the circulation of fluid, their internal gradients in hydrostatic pressure.  The micro circulatory system is essential for homeostasis of central fiber cells and its compromise through age and oxidation appears to be a major factor in age related cataracts. Moreover, active maintenance of the circulation is necessary for other optical properties of the lens.

Selected Publications