About Dr. Jianjie Ma's Research
We generate and employ various animal models of human disease to explore the physiologic function of novel genes. We use CRISPR-gene editing and AAV-gene delivery to investigate the molecular function of a given gene. We build state-of-the-art microscopic imaging tools to study gene function’s temporal and spatial aspects in vitro and in vivo. We use histological and biochemical means to map the signaling components associated with human health and diseases. We also partner with pharmaceutical industry to advance the basic findings into therapeutic development to treat human diseases.
As the Director of the Division of Surgical Sciences (DOSS), Dr. Ma has the responsibility to foster the success of team-based research in the Department of Surgery. DOSS provides a platform that captures the enthusiasm of small ideas and a comfortable home for young surgeon-scientists to participate and grow. Dr. Ma is also actively involved in mentoring junior investigators and surgeon-scientists.
About Dr. Chuanxi Cai's Research
Currently, Dr. Cai is focused on the biology of MG53/TRIM72 in human diseases with the following ongoing research projects: (1) Investigate the physiological role of MG53 and underlying mechanisms in tissue repair and inflammation in influenza virus-induced cardiopulmonary injuries; (2) Examine the mechanisms of in vivo controlling MG53 expression and the myokine function of MG53 in age-related heart failure and muscle disease; (3) Dissect the nuclear action of MG53 as a tumor suppressor in tumorigenesis.
In addition, Dr. Cai and his team recently discovered a novel cardiac specific long noncoding RNA Camirt, and we are elucidating the role and mechanisms of Camirt in modulating mitophagy in ischemic and age-related heart failure.
Behind the scenes in the Ma lab
