DOM Researcher Spotlight
Luis Nieto, MD
Digestive Diseases Fellow, Department of Medicine
What is your professional background?
I am currently a Gastroenterology and Hepatology fellow at Emory University. Originally from Ecuador, I completed my medical training at the Universidad de Guayaquil before continuing my postgraduate training in the United States. Prior to fellowship, I completed my Internal Medicine residency at WellStar Health System in Atlanta, where I also served as Chief Resident. I subsequently completed additional fellowship training in Clinical Nutrition and Obesity Medicine at West Virginia University and became board certified in Obesity Medicine. My research interests focus on the intersection of metabolic disease, obesity, and gastrointestinal disorders, particularly how emerging metabolic therapies influence gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary outcomes.
Which division do you work in? Who is your mentor?
I am a fellow in the Division of Digestive Diseases within the Department of Medicine at Emory University. My research is mentored by Drs. Saurabh Chawla, Virendra Joshi, and Steven Keilin, whose guidance has been instrumental in developing my research in metabolic and pancreatic diseases.
Briefly describe your research. Why is it important?
My research focuses on understanding how metabolic therapies, particularly incretin-based medications such as GLP-1 receptor agonists, affect gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary diseases. With the rapid expansion of these medications for diabetes and obesity, it is critical to better understand their safety profile and their broader effects on digestive health.
In recent studies, we examined the relationship between GLP-1 receptor agonists and acute pancreatitis and found that these therapies were not associated with an increased risk and may actually be linked to fewer complications in patients who develop pancreatitis. In another study, we explored outcomes after bariatric surgery and found that incretin-based therapies were associated with a lower risk of developing alcohol use disorder. These findings contribute to a growing body of evidence that metabolic therapies may have important effects beyond weight loss and glycemic control. Ultimately, my goal is to generate clinical evidence that helps physicians make safer and more informed treatment decisions for patients with metabolic and gastrointestinal diseases.
What do you like most about Emory?
What I appreciate most about Emory is the supportive environment among both my co-fellows and faculty. The mentorship and collaboration here create an outstanding atmosphere for learning and academic growth.
What is your favorite movie or TV show?
One of my favorite TV shows is Game of Thrones. I really enjoy the complex characters and storytelling.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my wife, traveling, and exploring new restaurants around the city.
What is a fun fact about you?
A fun fact about me is that I sing salsa better than I dance it. I also enjoy playing soccer whenever I get the chance.