About the group
We combine laboratory-based studies of animal models with clinical observations and interventions in patients.
As part of this strategy, we collaborate closely with other research groups with expertise on basic research methods, clinical electrophysiology, cardiac imaging and cardiogenetics. This provides us the opportunity to understand biological processes involved in pathological electrophysiology on a molecular, cellular, organ and organism level.
Our goal is that this insight will lead to improved diagnostics and therapy for patients with cardiac disease.
Our goals
We want to be able to predict and prevent triggers of arrhythmic events, and to provide a basis for the use of exercise for electrophysiological remodeling in a safe manner.
We especially focus on the role of Ca2+ handling by cardiac proteins associated with the sarcoplasmic reticulum, such as RyR2, SERCA2 and CaMKII. To better understand the role of these proteins, we use rodent models of heart failure, CPVT, HCM and ischemia-reperfusion.
Research methods
We combine clinical observations and interventions with molecular biology, cellular electrophysiology, Langendorff-perfused hearts and in vivo characterization by echocardiography, MRI and telemetric ECG recording. We also expose rodent models to exercise training by voluntary running in resistance-controlled running wheels and treadmills.
This combination of methods is possible because the personnel in our group have different academic backgrounds and specific know-how, from nanotechnology and molecular biology to clinical training in cardiology. We work together to identify key parts in the processes that lead to cardiac disease, and to develop strategies for future therapies.
Cooperation
Our research group has collaboration with several national and international institutions.
National
- Professor Thor Edvardsen, Department of Cardiology, OUS and UiO
- Associate Professor Kristina Haugaa, Department of Cardiology, OUS and UiO
- Professor Ivar Sjaastad, Institute for Experimental Medical Research, OUS and UiO
- Professor Geir Christensen, Institute for Experimental Medical Research, OUS and UiO
- Principal investigator and group leader Ida G. Lunde, Institute for Experimental Medical Research, OUS and UiO
- Professor William E. Louch, Institute for Experimental Medical Research, OUS and UiO
International
- Professor Mark E. Anderson, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
- Professor Stephan E. Lehnart, University of Göttingen, Germany