David J. Kast, PhD

David J. Kast, PhD

Assistant Professor of Cell Biology & Physiology

The Kast Lab studies the biogenesis and dynamics of intracellular membrane compartments; molecular mechanisms and regulation of cytoskeleton and membrane interactions.

Research Interests

Biogenesis and dynamics of intracellular membrane compartments; molecular mechanisms and regulation of cytoskeleton and membrane interactions.

Professional Education
  • BS: University of Minnesota-Minneapolis, 2000, Physics
  • MS: University of Minnesota-Minneapolis, 2004, Physics
  • PhD: University of Minnesota-Minneapolis, 2010, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics
  • Postdoc: Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 2011-2017, Physiology

Kast Lab

South Building (MS: 8228-0003-04)
314-273-1854
kast@wustl.edu

Imaging | Structural Biology | Metabolism | Organelle Contacts | Trafficking | Cytoskeleton

The Kast lab is investigating how cells remodel their metabolism in response to nutritional and environmental challenges. We are specifically interested in understanding the mechanisms cells employ to regulate the spatial-temporal arrangements and activities of metabolic compartments, such as lipid droplets, autophagosomes, and mitochondria, to meet the transient energy demands of the cell; as well as how perturbing these organelle networks contributes to pathogenesis of metabolic diseases and cancer. To study these processes, we use a multi-level approach that combines mass-spectrometry-based proteomics, cutting-edge microscopy, structural biology, and in vitro reconstitution assays

Publications