Research Interests
The heart contains a complex network of lymphatics (lymphatic vessels) that are essential to drain interstitial fluid and for immune surveillance to maintain homeostasis. In the recent years, research on cardiac lymphatics has received extensive attention as cardiac lymphatics has emerged to be a potential therapeutic target to promote cardiac function after ischemic heart disease.
Research in the Liu lab will focus on understanding the development and the function of cardiac lymphatics in cardiovascular disease. We will use a variety of genetic mouse models lacking/gaining lymphatic function, in combination with high-throughput sequencing, state-of-the-art imaging to dissect the molecular and cellular mechanisms how cardiac lymphatics regulate cardiac regeneration (in neonates) and repair (in adult mice). The ultimate goal is to develop novel therapeutic approaches for treatment of cardiovascular disease.
Education, Training & Credentials
- PhD, Oklahoma University Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK
Memberships
- American Heart Association
- North American Vascular Biology Organization
- Lymphatic Education & Research Network
Honors & Awards
- American Heart Association Career Development Award (2018-2022)
- Gordon Research Conference-Lymphatics Poster Award (2020)
- F1000 Travel Grant Award (2019)
- NAVBO travel award to 20th International Vascular Biology Meeting (2018)
- LE&RN Young Investigator Conference Scholarship Award (2016, 2018)