Dr. Mathai’s research focuses on:

1.       Neural control of urinary continence: 

 Using mice as model systems, he is interested in studying how the brain controls the micturition reflex to maintain continence. His specific area of interest is in how continence is maintained during normal sleep. His group uses state-of-the-art methods including optogenetics, fiberphotometry, X-ray videocystometry, and micturition videothermography to probe the brain circuits involved in maintaining continence.   

2.       Membrane transport: 

He has spent many years studying the mechanisms by which small molecules such as water, urea, CO2 and H2S permeate through lipid membranes and protein channels such as aquaporins and urea transporters.

harvard catalyst: bio and publications