My present research centers around understanding the function of mitochondria in disease and in the mechanism of action of volatile anesthetics. The work in my lab has centered on mitochondrial function during the past two years. However, we also have a long-standing interest in the genetics of response to volatile anesthetics. Our work has generally involved using the nematode, C. elegans, as a model system. During the past year we have begun to extend those studies into the mouse. As a pediatric anesthesiologist, I have become increasingly aware that mitochondrial function likely plays a significant role the response to anesthetics. This is a fascinating notion, one that is quite amenable to biochemical studies of mitochondria. I am very committed to understanding this problem and identifying effectors of the process.