Peter Gerhard Zechner

Peter Gerhard Zechner, M.D., Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Internal Medicine at UT Southwestern Medical Center and a member of the Division of Endocrinology. He completed his medical degree and doctorate in biomedical sciences at Albert-Ludwigs University in Freiburg, Germany, graduating summa cum laude. After postdoctoral research at Washington University in St. Louis and Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute, he joined UT Southwestern for residency and fellowship training in the Physician Scientist Training Program.

• Education: Albert-Ludwigs University (M.D., Ph.D.), Washington University (Postdoc), Sanford-Burnham (Postdoc)

Dr. Zechner's research focuses on metabolic regulation, particularly the role of hormones like FGF21 in energy homeostasis, mitochondrial biology, and gene transcription in cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. His work bridges molecular mechanisms with clinical applications in endocrinology and cardiology.

His publications highlight trends in nuclear receptor signaling, cardiac metabolism, and translational studies linking mitochondrial dysfunction to metabolic disorders. He has contributed to understanding PGC-1 coactivators in heart maturation and glucose regulation during ischemia and stress conditions.

Scientific Awards:

• Summa cum laude graduate (Albert-Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany)

Professional Affiliations:

• Dallas County Medical Society
• Texas Medical Association
• International Academy of Life Sciences
• Endocrine Society
• American Society for Bone and Mineral Research

He serves on the Endocrine Grand Rounds Speaker Selection Committee and is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in Endocrinology. His spare time activities include biking, soccer, and cultural pursuits in Dallas.