Gastrointestinal pharmacology
Research
Gastrointestinal research at Virginia Commonwealth University has a long history of important and novel contributions in gut function and regulation. There are several areas of research within the Department of Pharmacology including studies of the mechanism of opioid-induced bowel dysfunction, drugs affecting colonic inflammation and how bacterial proteins interact within the enteric nervous system. The investigators in the Department of Pharmacology work closely with GI researchers in other basic sciences and clinical departments. A consortium of GI researchers at VCU have formed the VCU Program in Enteric Neuromuscular Sciences (VPENS) that interact at many levels, including regular Journal Club meetings, teaching advanced level graduate courses, and hosting eminent gastroenterology researchers for seminars.
Please visit GI Pharmacology Research Lab for further information on GI research areas within the department.