Our lab develops engineered heart tissue (EHT) platforms to study how mechanical cues regulate cardiac tissue development and maturation. By generating cardiac bundles under controlled static tension, we aim to mimic the biomechanical environment of the native myocardium and investigate mechanisms governing cardiomyocyte alignment, contractile function, and tissue remodeling. 

Our lab investigates the mechanisms underlying early cardiogenesis, with a particular focus on cardiac looping during heart development. Using human iPSC–derived cardiac organoids as a model system, we study how biochemical signaling pathways and biomechanical cues coordinate tissue morphogenesis and structural organization. To examine the role of mechanical forces in early heart development, we employ a magnetic torque stimulation (MTS) platform that enables controlled mechanical stimulation within developing cardiac tissues. 

Our lab uses traction force microscopy (TFM) to quantify the mechanical forces that cells exert on their surrounding microenvironment. Cells are cultured on elastic substrates embedded with fluorescent beads, and cell-generated forces deform the gel and displace the beads. By tracking bead displacement and applying computational reconstruction, we generate traction force maps that reveal how cells transmit forces during migration, interaction, and collective behavior. 

Our research aims to prevent frailty by understanding metabolic capacity in older adults through comprehensive metabolic profiling. By analyzing metabolic responses to physical activity, we seek to identify physiological indicators that reflect individual metabolic health and functional status. Based on these metabolic data, we aim to develop personalized exercise strategies that support healthy aging and contribute to the realization of a “Frailty Zero” society.