Research
The heart is the first functional organ formed in mammals. Heart failure, often resulting from myocardial infarction and other cardiac insults, is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. The prevalence of heart failure is expected to increase by approximately 45% by 2030. By that time, an estimated 10 million Americans could be living with heart failure if more effective treatment options are not developed. A key factor leading to heart failure after myocardial infarction is the irreversible loss of cardiomyocytes, which are replaced by fibrotic scar tissue that impairs the heart's pumping function.
Research in Dr. Kunhua Song's lab focuses on understanding the signaling pathways and mechanisms governing disease pathogenesis and advancing mechanism-based therapeutic discovery. Our goal is to develop effective therapeutics for cardiovascular diseases, including heart failure and congenital heart defects. In addition to our robust internal research programs, we actively collaborate with others in the field, with the long-term goal of improving human health.
