Our research
Adult heart is one of the least regenerative organs in the human body, with substantial fibrotic scarring in response to tissue damage. In contrast, aquatic salamanders, such as the newt, display unique heart regeneration capacities. Yet, we know little about the underlying physical principles of cell and tissue dynamics. To cover this knowledge gap, we are currently working towards achieving the following research goals:
Deciphering the role of tight junctions in heart regeneration
Tight junctions are traditionally known for their role in generating a permeability barrier for our tissues. Recently, it has been demonstrated by us and others that these junctions have important functions beyond controlling the paracellular transport. We previously identified an important role for tight junctions in mediating heart muscle regeneration. We now aim to understand how dynamic remodeling of tight junctions in epicardial cells (cells covering the heart) impacts epicardial cell migration, proliferation, and differentiation.