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Funded Projects

SDH Inhibition Promotes Cardiac Regeneration in Myocardial Infarction by Reprogramming Myofibroblast Metabolism

Awarded in 2024
Postdoctoral Grant
Updated Sep 8, 2025

At a Glance

Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S., in part because the adult heart cannot regenerate after myocardial infarction (MI). This project explores how inhibiting succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) in myofibroblasts can reduce fibrosis and promote heart repair. Preliminary studies show SDH inhibition reprograms fibroblast metabolism, limits scar formation and boosts cardiomyocyte regeneration. By uncovering the mechanisms behind this process, the study aims to pave the way for new regenerative therapies to improve outcomes after heart attack.

More Funded Projects

research icon: microscope and stethoscope
Postdoctoral Grant

Quantifying Patellar Tendon Loads During Rehabilitation Exercises in Patients with Patellar Tendon Injuries

Outcome Report
Awarded in 2024
Patellar tendon injuries are common and can lead to lasting mobility issues. Exercise is the best treatment, but current methods often misjudge actual tendon load, limiting recovery. This project used new shear wave tensiometry to directly measure tendon load and quantitative ultrasound to assess tendon health. The project aimed to test how neuromuscular electrical stimulation enhances tendon loading and explore links between tendon structure and function. The research team collected a large dataset of quantitative ultrasound metrics and paired biomechanical data from a healthy control cohort and a cohort with patellar tendon injury. Analysis is underway and findings will guide more precise rehabilitation strategies to improve outcomes following patellar tendon injuries.
research icon: microscope and stethoscope
Postdoctoral Grant

Patient Barriers to Surgical Referral for Primary Hyperparathyroidism

Outcome Report
Awarded in 2024
Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) affects three million Americans and increases risks of fractures, kidney stones and cardiovascular disease. Surgery is the only cure, yet fewer than 10 percent of patients receive it. In Wisconsin, patients in highly disadvantaged neighborhoods are treated at half the rate of others. The project team interviewed patients to understand barriers to diagnosis and treatment. Based on their findings, they developed educational tools for both patients and providers to improve referrals and access to surgery. Through improving surgical referrals, these interventions have the potential to directly improve patient outcomes.