معرفی
Peter Smith is a Professor in the Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology (CDIB) department at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), with joint appointments in the School of Medicine's Department of Medical Education. He also serves as Director of Restorative Sciences in the School of Dentistry and is affiliated with the Center for Clinical and Translational Science and the Global Center for Craniofacial, Oral and Dental Disorders.
Dr. Smith earned his Doctor of Philosophy in Zoology/Animal Biology from Clemson University in 1989. His academic journey at UAB began in 1998 when he joined as an Associate Professor in Physiology & Biophysics, later transitioning to his current position in CDIB in 2012.
Dr. Smith's research primarily focuses on the interaction of the membrane cytoskeleton with epithelial ion channels and transport proteins. His work has significantly contributed to understanding epithelial sodium channels (ENaC), their regulation, and their role in various physiological processes including fluid transport in the lungs, kidneys, and other epithelial tissues. He has published extensively on the molecular mechanisms of ion channel function, particularly examining how the cytoskeleton regulates channel activity and how different subunits contribute to channel properties. His research bridges basic molecular mechanisms with clinical implications, particularly in respiratory and renal physiology.
Analysis of Dr. Smith's publication record reveals a consistent research trajectory centered on epithelial sodium channel structure and function, with particular attention to ENaC subunit composition, regulation by second messengers, and interactions with other proteins including the cytoskeleton. His work spans multiple physiological systems, from lung mesothelium to renal epithelia, demonstrating the fundamental importance of ion channel regulation across diverse tissues.
Dr. Smith has secured substantial research funding through numerous competitive grants including:
- UAB Cancer Research Experiences for Students (National Cancer Institute/NIH)
- UAB Center for Clinical and Translational Science (National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences/NIH)
- Development of Verbal Autopsy to Determine Mortality Due to Chagas Disease in Indigenous Communities in Brasil (New York Academy of Medicine)
- Short-Term Training for Medical Students in Cardiovascular Research (American Heart Association)
As an educator, Dr. Smith has taught numerous courses across UAB's medical and dental programs, focusing on systems physiology including renal, gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, and cardiovascular systems. His teaching portfolio spans multiple instructional formats from traditional lectures to team-based learning sessions. He has served on multiple committees including CODA Accreditation, School of Medicine Admissions Committee, and various curriculum committees, demonstrating his commitment to academic leadership and medical education.
