Evan Morris Zeitler

Evan Morris Zeitler, MD is an Assistant Professor of Medicine in the Division of Nephrology and Hypertension at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine. His clinical practice specializes in kidney disease with emphasis on metabolic disorders including diabetes and obesity, focusing on patient-centered care where healthcare providers act as advisors and cheerleaders.

His educational background includes:

• Undergraduate studies at Stanford University
• Medical degree from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• Residency in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics at UNC
• Fellowship in Nephrology at UNC

Dr. Zeitler's research investigates how diet and obesity contribute to kidney dysfunction through both clinical studies and experimental models. His work spans molecular mechanisms in zebrafish models to large-scale clinical networks, examining obesity-related glomerulopathy, metabolic responses to overfeeding, and pharmacological interventions for weight management in kidney disease patients. He emphasizes patient perspective in developing care plans and maintains active curiosity about human physiology.

Analysis of his 15 most recent publications (2013-2025) reveals a concentrated focus on obesity-kidney disease interactions, with significant contributions to clinical guidelines (including ASN guidance on obesity management), experimental models demonstrating reversible kidney damage from high-calorie diets, and investigations into cardiac outcomes in glomerular disease. His work bridges basic science (zebrafish metabolism studies) and clinical practice (CureGN consortium findings).

Scientific Awards:

• No awards listed in available sources

Dr. Zeitler mentors medical students and trainees within the Department of Medicine, emphasizing physiological understanding and patient-centered approaches. While specific grant details aren't provided, his active participation in the Cure Glomerulonephropathy Network indicates substantial research funding. His laboratory utilizes zebrafish to model metabolic kidney disorders, examining overfeeding effects and dietary interventions.

He maintains clinical appointments through UNC Health and contributes to multidisciplinary teams within the Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, with research extending to environmental exposures, interstitial nephritis, and hormonal disorders impacting kidney function.