Students discover and characterize genetic and non-genetic factors that contribute to variability in response to drugs and chemicals. The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of drugs and chemicals, including the implications of genetic polymorphisms, are evaluated in pre-clinical and clinical models using a variety of techniques including: chromatography/mass spectrometry, eye movement analysis, cell culture (e.g., hepatocytes), genotyping, and DNA sequencing. Students assess the manifestations of various disease states on drug handling and effect, regulation of drug metabolizing enzymes, as well as, drug pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in patient populations. Students develop skills in: pharmaceutical analysis; pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, and statistical modeling; and molecular methods for evaluating gene expression and regulation. Opportunities are available for clinical research in multiple areas including pharmacogenetics and outcomes research.

Primary contact:
Samuel Poloyac, PharmD, PhD
Assistant Professor
808A Salk Hall
Pittsburgh, PA 15261
Phone: (412)-624-4595
Fax: (412)-624-1850
Email: poloyac@pitt.edu

Faculty Associated with this Focus Area