My laboratory is interested in various aspects of cardiovascular pathobiology and therapeutics, in particular disorders associated with menopause, hypertension and heart failure. We use a combination of molecular, biochemical, and cellular approaches, coupled with animal studies. Current areas of emphasis include:

1. Novel therapeutic applicability of the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER): The increases in the risk and incidence of cardiovascular morbidity following menopause are associated with abnormal cardiovascular pressor responses. Our recent studies have identified unique estrogen-dependent and independent actions of GPER in signaling and functions of cardiovascular tissues. We are focusing on the therapeutic applicability of some novel tools developed from these actions in acute cardiovascular pressor responses and chronic cardiovascular remodeling.
2. New roles of calmodulin in the regulation of cardiovascular responses: Calmodulin is the ubiquitous transducer of cellular calcium signals yet is a limiting factor in all cardiovascular tissues. Our recent studies have identified novel functional interactions between calmodulin and critical receptors for cardiovascular pressor responses, including GPER, AT₁R, α_1AAR and β₁AR. We are investigating the roles of calmodulin in regulating agonist stimulation, G protein coupling and trafficking of these GPCRs.
3. Novel tool development for autophagy studies: Autophagy is an essential process whereby tissues catabolize unnecessary components to maintain homeostasis and produce energy for tissue functions. It is important in cardiac adaptation to ischemic conditions and hypertrophic stimuli, and abnormal autophagy promotes the development of heart failure. We are interested in developing new tools that enable dynamic and real-time monitoring of autophagy and using these tools in investigating the roles of autophagy in regulating cardiovascular pressor responses.