Matthais Kretzler, M.D.
Associate Professor of Internal Medicine
(734) 936-5645; Kretzler@umich.edu

Matthais Kretzler is an Associate Professor of Internal Medicine in the Division of Nephrology. Dr. Kretzler's main research interests are in the area of systems biology of renal disease. Using comprehensive biobanks he uses genome wide expression profiles to define transcriptional control mechanism of kidney failure using bioinformatics techniques that allow vast amounts of genetic and cellular data to be processed. Such techniques provide a means to search for biomarkers of glomerular failure, and to understand why and how certain genes become to be over- or under-expressed in patients with kidney disease. They also show the way toward new treatments for diseases in which the glomeruli fail, including nephrotic syndrome and microvascular disease that affects the entire cardiovascular system.

Dr. Kretzler and his team are also studying the role of certain molecules that transmit signals between cells called podocytes, which are vital to glomerular function. By understanding how these signals allow the cells to interact closely in a way that forms the basis of the glomerular filter, and what is altered in patients with failed glomeruli, it may be possible to devise treatments that could restore function.

Publications:
For a list of recent publications, refer to PubMed, a service provided by the National Library of Medicine.