OHSU

Robert D. Steiner, M.D.

Head Shot of Robert Steiner

Background

The Steiner Lab studies rare genetic disorders in which the body cannot properly synthesize or processes cholesterol. These disorders are caused by defects in the enzymes involved in the biochemical pathways that either synthesize cholesterol or that convert cholesterol into bile acids.

The most common human disorder of cholesterol synthesis is Smith-Lemli-Opitz Syndrome (SLOS). SLOS is due to a mutation in the 7-dehydrocholesterol Delta; 7 reductase gene (DHCR7) encoding the final enzyme in the cholesterol synthesis pathway. This disorder is associated with mental retardation and birth defects. SLOS characterized by low cholesterol levels and elevated levels of cholesterol precursors, in particular 7-dehydrocholesterol (7DHC).

The Steiner Lab focuses on characterization of the clinical and biochemical effects of DHCR7 mutation. Subsequently, potential treatments are developed and tested.

Dr. Steiner also researches osteogenesis imperfecta, lysosomal storage diseases, autism, and PKU.


Selected Publications

"Mutations in FKBp10, which result in bruck syndrome and recessive forms of osteogenesis imperfecta, inhibit the hydroxylation of telopeptide lysines in bone collagen," Human Molecular Genetics (Vol: 22, Issue: 1, Page 1-17) - 2013

"Assays of plasma dehydrocholesteryl esters and oxysterols from Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome patient," Journal of Lipid Research (Vol: 54, Issue: 1, Page 244-253) - 2013

"Treatment of Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome and other sterol disorders," American Journal of Medical Genetics, Part C: Seminars in Medical Genetics (Vol: 160 C, Issue: 4, Page 285-294) - 2012

"No evidence for mevalonate shunting in moderately affected children with Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome," Journal of Inherited Metabolic Disease (Vol: 35, Issue: 5, Page 859-869) - 2012

"Processing speed and executive abilities in children with phenylketonuria," Neuropsychology (Vol: 26, Issue: 6, Page 735-743) - 2012

 

OHSU Doernbecher Children's Hospital

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503 494-7859

Memberships & Associations

Fellow, American Academy of Pediatrics,
American Academy of Pediatrics, Section on Genetics and Birth Defects
Fellow American College of Medical Genetics
American Society of Human Genetics
Society for the Study of Inborn Errors of Metabolism
Society for Inherited Metabolic Disease
American Association for the Advancement of Science
Western Society for Pediatric Research
Society for Pediatric Research
Oregon Medical Association
American Medical Association
Oregon Society of Physician Assistants
American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology