This week we profile a recent publication in Circulation from the
laboratory of Dr. Rong Tian (pictured, far left) at UW.
Can you provide a brief overview of your lab’s current research focus?
The Tian Laboratory focuses on the roles of cell metabolism and mitochondrial function in the pathogenesis of human diseases. We take multidisciplinary approaches to engineer and interrogate the metabolic network in both cellular and animal models. Our ability to target molecular regulatory mechanisms in combination of rigorous metabolic phenotyping has led to groundbreaking discoveries in cardiometabolic research.
What is the significance of the findings in this publication?
Studies in the featured publication revealed a mechanism that protected mitochondria in the heart of obese animal models. The finding offers a new therapeutic opportunity for cardiomyopathy associated with obesity and diabetes.
What are the next steps for this research?
Other ongoing research includes four main areas: energy metabolism of the heart, mitochondrial biology, stem cell metabolism, and immunometabolism. Dr. Tian is also interested in bi-directional translational research between the bench and the bedside to elucidate disease mechanisms and to develop novel therapies.
To learn more, please visit our website: https://sites.uw.edu/mmcslu/laboratories/research-laboratories-tian-lab/
