My lab is focusing on molecular mechanism of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) disease progression. We are testing fropofol, a small molecule that inhibits cross-bridge cycling directly, on the phenotypical expression of HCM. We conduct both animal clinical studies and in vitro analysis of fropofol’s effect. Another area of research in to study the role of endothelial-myocyte coupling in development of right heart failure. We investigate the mechanism of transition from hypertrophy to failure in rat model of right heart failure, especially the role of endothelial-myocyte coupling and resistin. This is a collaborative project with Dr. Johns’ lab.

Cardiac Excitation-Contraction Coupling in Hypertrophy and Failure