CHEST Guidelines-Giants-in-Chest-Medicine--Emeritus-Professor-Peter (1)

Giants-in-Chest-Medicine--Emeritus-Professor-Peter (1)

Pdf Summary

Dr. Peter D. Wagner, an esteemed figure in respiratory physiology, reflects on his remarkable 50-year career that began when he combined his strong background in mathematics and physics with medicine. Starting his medical journey at Sydney University and publishing early work on lung physiology, Wagner advanced his research under Dr. John West at the University of California San Diego (UCSD) and continued as faculty, currently serving as Emeritus Faculty.<br /><br />Dr. Wagner identified gaps in understanding pulmonary gas exchange and developed the multiple inert gas elimination technique (MIGET). This technique, utilizing six inert gases, advanced insights into ventilation and blood flow distribution in the lungs across 500 studies, playing a crucial role in respiratory physiology.<br /><br />A member of the Operation Everest II research team, Dr. Wagner explored human physiological responses in high-altitude environments, furnishing insights into lung function limitations. His work extends from mathematical modeling to cellular research, contributing significantly across health and disease spectra.<br /><br />An influential mentor, Dr. Wagner has trained hundreds, contributing globally through collaborations. Recognized for high teaching standards, he has undertaken leadership roles, including presidencies at the American Thoracic Society and American Physiological Society.<br /><br />In "retirement," Dr. Wagner maintains his dedication to physiology and embraces winemaking, emphasizing his multifaceted interests. His vineyard and continued engagement in science showcase his enduring passion.<br /><br />Dr. Wagner's legacy in respiratory physiology, mentorship, and scientific leadership remains impactful, continued through ongoing research and enriched lives he’s influenced. His story and contributions are further chronicled through interviews and comprehensive research publications.

Keywords

Peter D. Wagner

respiratory physiology

MIGET

pulmonary gas exchange

UCSD

high-altitude research

American Thoracic Society

American Physiological Society

mentorship

winemaking