UCFUniversity of Central Florida · Psychology
Heart Sensory Systems Laboratory
Zixi Jack Cheng · Orlando, Florida
Research Focus
Dr. Zixi Jack Cheng's lab at the University of Central Florida focuses on the sensory systems of the heart, particularly how nerves from the vagus and spinal cords communicate about heart health and disease. They examine both healthy and diabetic hearts to understand how these nerve systems change and affect heart function. By mapping these nerves in rats and humans using advanced imaging techniques, the lab aims to create detailed 3D models that can guide new treatments for heart-related conditions, especially in diabetic patients.
heart sensory systemsvagal afferentsspinal afferentsdiabetesnociceptive neurons3D heart modelingmechanosensitive neuronscardiopulmonary reflexesanatomical mappinginteroception
Research Aims
5AIM 01Map the vagal and spinal afferent innervation of healthy and diabetic hearts.
AIM 02Identify and differentiate mechanosensitive and nociceptive cardiac afferent neurons.
AIM 03Integrate anatomical and functional data into a comprehensive 3D heart model.
AIM 04Investigate laterality preferences and sex differences in nerve innervation patterns.
AIM 05Develop a foundation for treating cardiac disorders and interoceptive dysfunctions in diabetic patients.
Skills the Lab Values
immunohistochemistryanatomical tracing3D modelingfunctional mappinganimal dissectiontracer injectionsdata visualizationphysiological testingneuron labelingmechanosensitivity assessment
Output against the department
Publications95bottom 24% of dept.225th of 296
this lab
most publishedleast published
Citations1.3kbottom 10% of dept.265th of 296
this lab
most citedleast cited
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