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Assistant Professor, Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology

Kara McKinley

Assistant Professor, Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology

Research

Our lab focuses on two of the most dynamic organ systems in mammals: the small intestine and the uterus. The intestinal epithelium is in a constant state of flux, replacing almost all of its cells every 3-5 days, and can rapidly regenerate its diverse cell types upon damage. The human uterine liningĀ  (endometrium) undergoes dramatic tissue remodeling each month over the menstrual cycle, followed by shedding during menstruation and subsequent repair, ultimately regenerating ~400 times over the reproductive lifespan. Together, these systems provide powerful complementary models to reveal unifying principles of regeneration, as well as to identify key aspects of organ-specific physiology..