Ä¢¹½´«Ã½

For World Heart Rhythm Week, we sat down with Shanshan Tian, a PhD candidate in the lab of UÄ¢¹½´«Ã½â€™s Dr. Wayne Chen to learn about her research. 

Tell us about your research

My PhD project focuses on mutations of the RyR2, a ryanodine receptor found in the heart that mediates calcium release to drive the heartbeat. Specifically, I am looking at truncation of the C terminal of the receptor—this means that a portion of the receptor is missing. So far, my work has shown that a specific pacing protocol can be used to diagnose patients with this mutation. 

Why is this important?

While some patients with this mutation seem fine, it can develop into a serious arrhythmia that might lead to sudden cardiac death. There are no treatments for this condition, and patients may not have any warning signs. Since this loss-of-function mutation can be genetic, diagnosing it in families may save lives. 

Tell us about your lab

Dr. Chen’s lab focuses mainly on arrhythmias. In 2021, the lab discovered a new disease related to RyR2 called Calcium Release Deficiency Syndrome (CRDS). Since then, we have also developed a diagnostic tool based on a specific cardiac pacing protocol and developed a treatment for the condition. My work, which mostly involves cellular studies, is a continuation of this work. 

What’s your goal with this research? 

My overall goal is to transfer my findings from the lab to the clinic. I don’t just want to focus on basic science; I am interested in helping patients and saving lives. It’s exciting to do this work for that reason. 

Tell us about your career path

I was born and raised in China and received my masters in pharmacology from Harbin Medical University. My supervisor previously worked in Dr. Chen’s lab. This connection brought me to Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ to pursue my PhD. In this lab, I have learned many different scientific techniques and gained new experiences. 

What’s next for you? 

Once I have completed my PhD, I will look for other opportunities in this field. I may get a job or find a postdoctoral position. I may return to China, but if another international opportunity is available, it might be an opportunity to learn and have even more experiences.