Sharma Lab
Work in the laboratory of Arun Sharma, PhD, focuses on applying human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) to model cardiovascular diseases in vitro. The lab utilizes cutting-edge technologies, including hiPSCs, CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, cardiac microfluidic organ-chips and cardiac organoids in our studies. Specifically, we have used hiPSC-derived cardiomyocytes (heart muscle cells) to model cardiac viral infections during COVID-19, examine developmental mechanisms underlying congenital heart disease and understand ways to alleviate cardiac toxicity caused by cancer drugs. In our ongoing studies, we have a unique background and interest in space biology, notably exploring ways in which stem cell biology can intersect with this emerging field.
Personal Statement
I have a long-standing interest in the intersection of stem cell biology and cardiovascular biology, focusing on effectively modeling diseases in a dish. I am particularly excited about making in vitro biology as close as possible to in vivo. Recent technological developments, like CRISPR/Cas9 and organ-chips, can elevate in vitro disease modeling. Beyond the lab, I advocate for effectively communicating science to general and scientific audiences through public speaking, while mentoring junior scientists at Cedars-Sinai and beyond."
Arun Sharma, PhD
Breakthrough Research
- Using stem cell-derived cardiovascular cells to model chemotherapy-induced cardiovascular toxicity.
- Developing multicell lineage in vitro platforms, such as cardiovascular organ-chips and cardiac organoids, for studying cardiovascular diseases in a dish.
- Studying the effects of microgravity and spaceflight on human tissues using stem cell-derived cells as a model and for biomanufacturing purposes.
Publications
Learn more about the recent research publications from the Sharma Lab.
Laboratory Team
Learn more about the scientists, faculty members, investigators and other healthcare professionals of the Sharma Lab, whose dedicated efforts lead to groundbreaking discoveries.
Job Opportunities
We are actively recruiting students and postdocs to be our colleagues and expand lab knowledge and expertise to make important breakthroughs.
Collaborations
The Sharma Lab collaborates with a wide range of investigators within Cedars-Sinai and institutions around the world.
- International Society for Stem Cell Research
- American Heart Association
- Center for the Advancement of Science in Space (CASIS)
Contact the Sharma Lab
127 S. San Vicente Blvd.,
Pavilion, A8405
Los Angeles, CA 90048