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Institute of Metabolic Science

Metabolic Research Laboratories
 

Research focus

The overall aim of my research is to use investigate the molecular mechanisms of chemo- and mechano-sensitivity of enteroendocrine cells, using patch clamp, calcium imaging and secretion assays in human intestinal organoids.  

Background and experience

I was born and raised in Chile, where I obtained my degree in Biology. Soon after that, I moved to the UK to join Oxford Brookes University’s Neuroscience PhD Program. Before joining the IMS, I did a postdoc at the Enteric Neuroscience program at Mayo Clinic, in the US. 

I moved back to the UK and joined the Gribble-Reimann lab to learn about the use of CRSPR-Cas9 and human organoid in the study of enteroendocrine cells and their role as gut sensors. 

Working at the IMS-MRL

My current project involves the study of ion channels and G-coupled protein receptors important for nutrient-sensing in human enteroendocrine cells. 

Awards

Little Brain Big Brain (LBBB) 2018 – Best presentation award 

American Neurogastroenterology and Motility Society- Young investigator award 2019 

Little Brain Big Brain (LBBB) 2020 selected speaker and travel award. 

Publications

Key publications: 

Alcaino et al., Proceedings of the National academy of Sciences of the United States of America. A population of gut epithelial enterochromaffin cells is mechanosensitive and requires Piezo2 to convert force into serotonin release. 2018. 

Alcaino, Farrugia and Beyder. Current topics in Membranes. Mechanosensitive Piezo channels in the Gastrointestinal tract  

Treichel, Finholm, Knutson, Alcaino et al., Gastroenterology. Specialized mechanosensory epithelial cells in Mouse gut intrinsic tactile sensitivity. 2022. 

Research Associate
Gribble/Reimann Group

Contact Details

Email address: