Dr. Mesut Berber, PhD

Dr. Mesut Berber's research program investigates adrenal cortex architecture and function, with particular emphasis on the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying primary aldosteronism—the most common cause of secondary hypertension.

Using integrated approaches that combine cell biology, mouse genetics, physiology, and human pathology studies, Dr. Berber examines how calcium and β-catenin signaling regulate cell-cell interactions and tissue architecture in the adrenal cortex through Rho-dependent mechanical pathways. His work demonstrates that physiological secretagogues activate these mechanical signaling pathways to organize specialized rosette structures that coordinate aldosterone synthesis. In contrast, dysregulation of these pathways drives adrenal hyperplasia and excessive hormone production in pathological states.

The overarching goal is to identify actionable therapeutic targets by defining the mechanistic principles governing how forces at cell-cell junctions control both normal and tumoral adrenocortical function.

Human Aldosterone-Producing Adenomas: Enhanced K-cadherin-based adhesion