Peter Crawford

Dr. Peter Crawford, MD, PhD, is a distinguished figure in the field of molecular medicine, currently serving as the Vice Dean for Research and Division Director of Molecular Medicine at the University of Minnesota Medical School. His academic journey is marked by a profound commitment to understanding the complex mechanisms underlying cardiovascular disease, obesity, and intermediary metabolism. As Vice Chair for Research in the Department of Medicine, Dr. Crawford plays a pivotal role in steering innovative research initiatives. In his dual professorial roles within the Division of Molecular Medicine and the Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, Dr. Crawford is dedicated to unraveling the intricate relationships between metabolic processes and disease states. His research is particularly focused on the use of genetic mouse models with specific deficiencies in ketone body metabolism. Through these models, he investigates how metabolic pathways shift in response to health challenges, providing critical insights into the body's adaptive mechanisms. Dr. Crawford is at the forefront of employing cutting-edge technologies such as stable isotope tracer-based NMR and mass spectrometry-based metabolomics. These advanced tools enable him to study metabolism at a systems level, offering a comprehensive view of how metabolic networks operate and adapt. His work is instrumental in advancing our understanding of metabolic adaptations in conditions like obesity, diabetes, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and cardiomyopathy. The ultimate aim of Dr. Crawford's research is to pave the way for personalized therapeutic strategies that can effectively address metabolic disorders. By identifying key metabolic alterations, he seeks to develop targeted interventions that can improve patient outcomes. His research extends beyond animal models, as he also conducts studies in humans to explore the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of changes in ketone metabolism across various diseases. Dr. Crawford's contributions to the field are not only advancing scientific knowledge but also holding promise for the development of novel treatments that could transform the management of metabolic diseases. His dedication to research excellence and his innovative approach continue to inspire both his colleagues and the next generation of scientists.