Our Research Focus:
The work in our laboratory is aimed at gaining new mechanistic insight into how imbalances in microcirculatory or lymphatic function contribute to inflammation and disease.
Mechanisms Underlying Microvascular Hyperpermeability
Our team is investigating the active role of endothelial cells in controlling microvascular permeability, how inflammation disrupts endothelial barrier function, and potential therapeutic strategies to reduce excessive microvascular leakage of plasma proteins.
Impact of Metabolic Syndrome on Lymphatic Pumping
Using lymphatic vessels isolated from human organ donor mesentery (supplied by LifeLink), we are exploring how obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and their combinations impact lymphatic pump function.
Alcoholism, Sigma Receptors, and Arterial Function
We are studying how sigma receptor agonists and antagonists affect vascular tone. In partnership with LifeLink, we are using human mesenteric arteries from organ donors, and are exploring how past alcohol use impacts sigma receptor expression and function.
Funding for our Research
Grant Support
NIH/NIGMS R35GM145379 Microvascular Leakage in Hemorrhagic Shock and Trauma 7/1/22 - 6/30/27
NIH/NIAAA R21AA029213 Human Resistance Artery Functional Changes with Alcohol Use 3/10/22 - 2/28/25
NIH/NHLBI R56HL153542 Obesity, Metabolic Syndrome, and Lymphatic Dysfunction 9/22/22 - 8/31/24
American Heart Association 901052 University of South Florida Summer Undergraduate Program in Cardiovascular Biology 1/1/22 - 12/31/24
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