We apply a wide range of tools and approaches, including stem cells, single molecule manipulations, living cell and super-resolution imagings, molecular and biochemical methods, proteomics and genomics, and whole transgenic models to study membrane receptors and ion channels and their associated complexes in cardiovascular and neuronal diseases linked to metabolic disorders and aging.
We develop and apply biosensors for detection of a range of signaling molecules, including secondary messengers (cAMP, cGMP, IP3, and Calicum, etc.), protein kinases (PKA, Akt, and CaMKII, etc.) and neurotransmitters (NE and ATP, etc.) in neurons and cardiac myocytes as well as in whole hearts.
Leica FRET microscope
Zeiss FRET microscope
cAMP in single adult ventriclar myocytes
cAMP in the whole heart, Collaboration with Dr. Ripplinger
We developed a SiMPull method to study single DNA, protein, or chemicals on TIRF microscope.
Single Molecule Pulldown (SiMPull) assay
Olympus SiMPull microscope
We apply super resolution imaging to study membrane receptors and channels in the heart and brain.
Super-resolution images of two populations of a GPCR in HEK293 cells
Leica Stelaris STED super-resolution imaging microscope
We develop and apply animal models of diseases using behavioral, surgical, and transgenic approaches, including HFpEF and Alzheimer's diseases.
5X FAD Alzheimer's disease
Diastolic function measured by echocardigram in HFpEF
We apply electrophysiology and behavioral tests.
Patch-clamp and electrophysiology
Behavioral tests, including MWM, FST, novel object, elevated plus, open field, fear-conditioning, etc.