John T. Li, MD

After receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree in molecular biology from the University of California at Berkeley, Dr. Li earned his medical degree from Tulane University School of Medicine. He trained in pediatrics at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, followed by pediatric critical care fellowship at Seattle Childrens Hospital and Regional Medical Center. He continued his basic science research interest in sepsis and endothelial biology as a National Research Scientist Award (NRSA) recipient at the University of Washington. After completing his research training, he joined the critical care faculty at Childrens Hospital of Los Angeles.

Dr. Li joined the faculty at UCSF and the Lung Biology Center at Mission Bay to investigate the precise molecular mechanisms that regulate lung epithelial and endothelial interactions in inflammatory conditions. Central to understanding lung epithelial-endothelial interactions is identifying key signaling pathways involving matrix proteins and tight junction molecules. As a junior investigator in Dr. Dean Sheppards laboratory, Dr. Li is currently focused on understanding the role of junctional adhesion molecules (JAMs) in regulating leukocyte trafficking and vascular permeability in acute lung injury. Implications of his research endeavors include identifying therapeutic targets for ameliorating capillary leak syndrome observed in over-exuberant inflammatory diseases such as acute lung injury and sepsis.

For further information, visit Dr. Sheppards research group website.