Dr. Sadayappan’s research is driven by the desire to improve cardiac health with the long-term goal of treating and preventing the development of genetically induced heart failure, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, congenital heart disease, and dilated cardiomyopathy. In the last five years, he has expanded his portfolio to define skeletal muscle genetic diseases, such as distal arthrogryposis and Lethal Congenital Contracture Syndrome. Dr. Sadayappan and his team have focused on studying the regulation of cardiac, skeletal, and smooth muscles in health and various pathophysiological conditions. Specifically, his studies include iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes, iPSC-derived cardiac organoids, genetically engineered mouse models, and gene corrections using CRISPR-mediated gene therapy, AAV-mediated gene therapy, and antisense oligonucleotides. His research lab works directly with various pharmaceutical companies to perform translational preclinical and clinical trials. Some ongoing studies aim to develop small-molecule and peptide therapies to treat heart failure. For more information, please visit https://www.sadayappanlab.org/.
The Tucson Myofilament Meeting is an international 3.5-day Sarver Heart Center conference that brings together approximately 250 scientists focused on the structure and function of the myofilaments that comprise the contractile machinery of muscle. Spanning topics from molecular biophysics to heart and skeletal muscle disease mechanisms and drug development, the meeting is known for its highly interactive, collaborative, and informal atmosphere, with strong engagement of early career investigators.
Traditionally held biennially at the University of Wisconsin, the meeting will continue at the University of Arizona beginning in May 2026, offering a distinctive Tucson setting that fosters scientific exchange and community building.