Research

Multi-Symptom Chronic Conditions

My overall research program aims to advance the understanding of multi-symptom chronic conditions that involve overlapping neurological, metabolic, and inflammatory dysfunction. We investigate conditions such as chronic migraine, concussion, Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), Long COVID, and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). These conditions may share common biological underpinnings but are often studied in isolation. By integrating autonomic, neuroimaging, metabolic and inflammatory biomarker profiling, advanced data-driven modeling, and adaptive trial designs, we aim to identify shared biological mechanisms, novel therapeutic targets, and personalized treatment strategies that transcend traditional diagnostic labels.

Our research focuses on exploring how biological markers influence symptom patterns, disease trajectories, and treatment responses. We are particularly interested in how exercise and physical activity impact these conditions, using real-time biomarker monitoring to distinguish between beneficial and harmful responses. Our work leverages cutting-edge data science, wearable technology, and biomarker-driven adaptive trial methods to develop more precise, biology-based approaches to diagnosis and treatment. Ultimately, we aim to transform how these complex conditions are understood and managed, improving clinical care, patient quality of life, and future research pathways.

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome in Children

The autonomic nervous system dynamically responds to changes around and within us. From temperature changes to changes in position, it constantly adjusts blood pressure, heart rate, the size of our pupils, and whether we sweat or not—to name just a few. The autonomic nervous system touches all aspects of our body, so it can be challenging to understand when things go wrong.

Sometimes the system becomes dysregulated, and this is one way to understand Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome or POTS. In this condition, a person's heart rate increases dramatically when they are standing, and they often feel lightheaded or unsteady. When this happens for weeks and months, they usually begin to feel fatigued and develop other symptoms like headaches. It can be a complicated disorder and is often misunderstood by others. How could so many things go wrong all at the same time? That is what happens when the autonomic nervous system becomes dysregulated in POTS.

My research interests focus on better understanding POTS using traditional measures of autonomic reflexes, like heart rate and blood pressure response to changes in position. I also use advanced MRI techniques to study brain blood flow in POTS. My overall aim is to better understand the underlying mechanisms in POTS. I am also very interested in developing better treatment strategies for POTS, including digital health interventions.