Tianqing Peng
Professor, Scientist
Office: Victoria Research Laboratories, Rm A6-140
Phone: (519) 685-8500 Ext. 55441
Fax: (519) 685-8341
E-mail: tpeng2@uwo.ca
Research Activities
Keywords: myocardial dysfunction, myocardial injury, diabetic cardiomyopathy, doxorubicin cardiotoxicity, sepsis
Description of Research Activities: The primary research in my lab involves the understanding of the mechanisms of myocardial dysfunction. We utilize a wide range of approaches ranging from cellular, molecular biology to in vivo physiology. Cultured cardiomyocytes and isolated whole hearts are used to study the molecular mechanisms of myocardial dysfunction and the role of key genes/proteins in this process. To assess the physiological significance of each molecule, related knockout or transgenic and wild-type animals are employed. Current research is focused on doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity. We study the signal transduction mechanisms in cardiomyocytes in response to doxorubicin, an important drug for cancer treatment, and develop strategies for prevention and treatment. We are also focusing on diabetic cardiomyopathy. We are investigating the molecular mechanisms of hyperglycemia/high free fat acids-induced cardiomyocyte injuries and developing the therapeutical strategies to protect the heart from injury as the heart has limited ability to regenerate its damaged tissue. Other research is focused on multiple organ failure in sepsis.
