Philip K. Frykman

Biography

The research of Philip K. Frykman, MD, PhD, MBA, FAAP, FACS, focuses on basic mechanisms of Hirschsprung disease (HSCR). As a pediatric surgeon-scientist, Frykman has been particularly focused on investigating the biological mechanisms underpinning why some children with HSCR develop severe, life-threatening enterocolitis (HAEC) while others didn't. Through his decadelong studies, his lab has made important contributions by developing robust animal models of HAEC, creating and validating a murine histopathological enterocolitis scoring system to study the foundational biology of HAEC. His lab has delineated the immunobiology of the immune disorder in HAEC, showing that the lymphopenia is not a result of endothelin and receptor signaling deficit, but rather is secondary to endocrine physiologic and gut microbial alterations caused by intestinal stasis. Currently, Frykman is focused on characterizing the intestinal bacterial and fungal microbiota of children with HSCR, with particular interest in defining the differences in those who developed HAEC. In collaboration with David Underhill, PhD, Frykman is investigating the roles of fungi and antifungal innate immunity in development HAEC, as this could directly impact the diagnosis and treatment of children with HAEC.

Research Interest

Branchial Cleft Cysts Choledochal Cysts Colorectal Surgery / Surgeries (Colon, Rectal) Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernias Crohn's Disease - Pediatric Esophageal Disorders - Pediatric Gastroesophageal Reflux (GERD) Gastrointestinal Disorders - Pediatric Hernias - Pediatric Imperforate Anus Repair Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) - Pediatric Nissen Fundoplication Pectus Excavatum Repairs (Chest Wall Deformity) Splenectomy (Spleen Removal) Stomach Disorders (Nausea, Pain, Vomiting) - Pediatric Thyroglossal Duct Cysts Ulcerative Colitis - Pediatric Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery / Surgeries (VATS) - Pediatric