Heaps, Cristine Dr.

The primary research in my laboratory is focused on adaptations in the coronary circulation in response to disease and exercise training. Specifically, we study changes in cellular and molecular mechanisms of endothelium and smooth muscle that contribute both dilation and constriction of the vasculature and control blood flow into the myocardium, including assessment of smooth muscle ion channels isolated from arteries and arterioles. We have had a long history of use of porcine models for biomedical research in highly clinically relevant studies. We also collaborate with other investigators to explore adaptations in vascular and lymphatic function in an array of disease states.