My doctoral research is on the role of the Regulator of G-protein Signaling 4 (RGS4) in the heart, but more specifically the atria. Our initial findings showed that RGS4 is highly expressed in the sinoatrial node, is involved in its parasympathetic regulation, and is thus an important regulator of heart rate. More recently, we have shown that RGS4 is involved in protecting the heart against atrial fibrillation, a major contributor of heart disease. Although our main findings have been on the murine model, we have shown changes in RGS4 expression in a tachypaced canine model as well, and hope to study human patients with atrial fibrillation in the future. It may be that our studies will unearth a novel therapeutic treatment and prevention strategies for atrial fibrillation, with RGS4 as the primary target.
Left to Right: Dr. Margaret Rand (Chair, Awards Committee), Carlo Cifelli
and Mrs. Pixie Currie (Dr. Bigelow’s daughter)