Multiscale Models for Cardiac Mechanics

In this project, stochastic multiscale models that can be used in both cardiac mechanics and electrophysiology areas of research will be developed. These models span-out the molecular, Brownian, and Langevin dynamics of the contractile (sarcomeric proteins) mechanism of cardiac cells and up-to-the finite element analysis of the tissue and organ levels. 

In this project, we aim to use a coupled electro-mechanical finite element model (FEM)  to simulate the human heart function ( truncated bi-ventricular 3-D geometry) at different disease conditions. The topological organization of heart muscle fibers and their complex orientation will be determined using DTMRI technique  to quantify their effects on the  blood pumping function. The outcomes from this project are expected to adequately model the cardiac mechanics  and to study the  fibers structure variations across the  heart wall to obtain reliable patients specific simulations.  

Inspired by respiratory system in insects, in particular the rhythmic  wall contractions found in insect's tracheal tubes, this project aim to develop novel bioinspired micropumps and valves that can funcational particularly well in the low  Reynolds number flow regime. These bioinspired actuators are expected to contribute to the modern revolution in medical devices.

In this project, theoretical and computational models will be used to study the thin-filament  activation process during cardiac contraction. In particular, the we plan to use the Brownian-Langevin dynamics principles to derive a coarse-graining  multiscale myofilament model. This approach is expected to link atomistic  molecular simulations of protein-protein interactions in the  thin-filament regulatory unit to sarcomere-level activation dynamics.

In this project, we aim to use a the recent technology in Nanotechnology, Microfabrication, 3D printing, and Bioprinting to propose and build a new generation of cardiac assistant devices including but not limited to drug coated stents, and left ventricular assist device (LVAD).