Research
The major focus of our laboratory is
basic and translational cardiovascular research with an emphasis on developing novel therapies for cardiovascular diseases. One of our research interests is to study the
molecular mechanisms of cardiac apoptosis and develop novel anti-apoptotic applications in cardiovascular diseases. Specifically, we are developing novel nanoparticle-based systems that are activated by hydrogen peroxide, the most abundant form of reactive oxygen species produced during reperfusion injury, to be used in cardiovascular therapeutics and bio-imaging.
In addition, we showed that
Vitamin D therapy prevents the progression of cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure in animal models. We are currently investigating the molecular mechanism of cardiac dysfunction associated with Vitamin D deficiency and examining the potential role of Vitamin D therapy in the treatment of heart failure. Also, we, in collaboration with other investigators, identified novel VDR agonists and are studying these novel compounds for clinical applications.