University of Kansas · BiologyCardioRespiratory Lab
Rodrigo Del Rio · Lawrence, Kansas
Research Focus
Dr. Rodrigo Del Rio's lab focuses on understanding how specific neurons in the brainstem control breathing and heart function, particularly in the context of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). They use advanced techniques to map neuronal activity and gather physiological data to identify potential treatments that could improve heart and respiratory health. This research is crucial for developing new strategies to combat a prevalent health issue affecting millions.
heart failurebreathing disordersautonomic dysfunctionneural controlsympathetic nervous system
Research Aims
5AIM 01Map neuronal activity in the RVLM during HFpEF progression
AIM 02Monitor cardiorespiratory and cardiac function longitudinally
AIM 03Characterize molecular changes in RVLM-C1 neurons in HFpEF
AIM 04Test effects of sympatholytics on cardiorespiratory outcomes
AIM 05Identify therapeutic windows for intervention in heart failure.
Skills the Lab Values
neurophysiology techniquesrodent modelsmolecular characterizationcardiac function monitoringtranscriptomics analysismetabolomics analysisablation techniquesphysiological data mappingin vivo experimentation
Output against the department
Publications164top 40% of dept.417th of 1,033
this lab
most publishedleast published
Citations2.9kbottom 21% of dept.811th of 1,033
this lab
most citedleast cited
Career totals from OpenAlex, compared against labs that share a department. A department spans everything from one paper to tens of thousands, so bar heights are on a log scale — otherwise the largest lab would flatten every other bar to a line.