Integrative computational modeling of calcium handling and cardiac arrhythmias

This PhD research focuses on the development and utilization of computer model-based (virtual) heart muscle cell and tissue to study the mechanisms of calcium dysregulation in heart rhythm disorders. Using this virtual cell, the study discovered that the distribution of calcium inside the heart muscle cell is an important factor for the development of heart rhythm disorder in the cellular level. The researcher further extended the application of this detailed computer model to study the role of inflammation on atrial fibrillation post cardiac surgery. Additionally, using virtual cell/tissue, the researcher also studied the complex mechanisms of heart rhythm disorders that could not be explained by laboratory experiments. For example, impact of calcium on other ion channels (doors controlling the movement of particles in/out of the cells) in the heart and effect of binge alcohol drinking. Finally, the study also developed an educational tool to better understand the cellular effect of drugs for heart rhythm problems.