Jorge A. Castorena

Jorge A. Castorena, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Pharmacology at Tulane University School of Medicine, where he leads research on lymphatic system function and dysfunction. His academic journey began with Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Physics from Universidad de Guanajuato in México, followed by a PhD in Bioengineering from the University of Missouri. After completing a postdoctoral fellowship under Dr. Michael J. Davis at the University of Missouri School of Medicine, he served as a Research Assistant Professor before joining Tulane University in 2020.

Dr. Castorena's research program focuses on understanding the mechanisms through which the lymphatic system becomes dysfunctional and contributes to cardiovascular diseases. His lab investigates the critical relationship between obesity and lymphatic dysfunction, as well as the effects of aging on lymphatic system function. The lymphatic system serves multiple vital roles including returning interstitial fluid to circulation, immune cell trafficking, dietary lipid absorption, and unfortunately, serving as a pathway for cancer metastasis.

His laboratory employs a sophisticated array of techniques including simultaneous multi-channel confocal microscopy for intracellular calcium imaging, pressure myography on isolated lymphatic vessels from animal models and humans, lymphatic primary cell cultures, and electron microscopy. The lab also develops innovative computational tools for automated data and image analysis, reflecting Dr. Castorena's strong physics and engineering background.

Analysis of Dr. Castorena's publication record (2020-2025) reveals a strong focus on lymphatic physiology, with particular emphasis on calcium signaling mechanisms, lymphatic valve function, and the impact of metabolic stress on lymphatic contractility. His work frequently examines the role of specific ion channels (KATP, TRPV4, T-type calcium channels) and connexin proteins in lymphatic function. Recent publications demonstrate expanding research into connections between lymphatic function and neurological conditions via the glymphatic system.

Dr. Castorena serves as a TIPS Mentor in Tulane's Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, providing research opportunities for students interested in vascular biology, lymphatic physiology, and related interdisciplinary fields. His lab offers comprehensive training in advanced physiological techniques and computational analysis methods, preparing students for careers at the intersection of engineering, physics, and biomedical sciences.