Lab of Molecular Imaging and Stem Cell Therapy

Over the past years, we have used state-of-the-art imaging technology and developed molecular imaging assays for studying intact biological systems and made phenomenal progress in developing methods to endothelium differentiation of embryonic stem (ES) cell, non-invasively monitor the dynamics of cardiac gene expression, and stem cell transplantation using novel optical bioluminescence and position emission tomography (PET) imaging approaches.

Our research will bridge and advance the field of stem cell biology and cardiovascular medicine. Cardiovascular disease is a global cause of morbidity and mortality. Current treatments fail to address the underlying tissue scarring and cell loss, which can result in congestive heart failure. With further development and validation, We believe stem cell transplantation can overcome some of these intransigent problems. In particular, embryonic stem cell (ESC) derived endothelial cells (ECs) may offer yet another exciting and alternative source of regenerative therapy to induce myocardial neovascularization. Our future research directions focus on stem cell biology and molecular imaging, understanding the biology and physiology of transplanted stem cells in the heart and developing new ways to monitor cell therapies for patients with ischemic heart disease.