معرفی
Xiaochun Long is a Professor at Augusta University's Medical College of Georgia with a primary appointment in the Department of Medicine (Cardiology division) and core faculty status at the Vascular Biology Center (VBC). Her research bridges molecular mechanisms and translational applications to address critical unmet needs in vascular diseases, particularly abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) and arteriovenous fistula (AVF) failure.
Education:
- Ph.D. in Experimental Pathology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, China (2003)
- M.S. in Virology, Central China Normal University, China (1998)
- B.S. in Biology, Central China Normal University, China (1995)
- Postdoctoral Research Associate, Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of Rochester (2005-2008)
- Postdoctoral Research Associate, Department of Biology, Texas A&M University-Commerce (2004-2005)
Dr. Long's laboratory pioneers the study of vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) phenotypic plasticity using single-cell multi-omics (scRNA/ATAC-seq, spatial transcriptomics), advanced genetic mouse models, and human tissue analysis. Current projects investigate protein quality control systems (ubiquitin-proteasome and autophagy) in AAA pathogenesis and venous SMC reprogramming mechanisms in AVF maturation failure. Her work aims to develop targeted therapies for conditions with no current pharmacological treatments, emphasizing translational impact through integration of basic science and clinical applications.
Recent publications reveal strong trends in noncoding RNA biology (particularly lncRNAs like INKILN), CRISPR-based functional genomics, and molecular dissection of VSMC dysfunction. Her work spans vascular biology, molecular cardiology, and translational therapeutics, with increasing focus on single-cell resolution of disease mechanisms and sex-specific factors in cardiovascular disease.
Scientific Awards:
- Special recognition Award for CAAC mission advancement (2024)
- NIH Alzheimer's supplement Award (2022)
- AHA Established Investigator Award (2022)
- R01 NIH Young Investigator Award (2014-2019)
- Dialysis Clinic, Inc Research Award (2015-2018)
- AHA Scientist Development Grant (2010-2014)
- Best ATVB poster award (2010)
- AHA Postdoctoral Fellowship (2006-2008)
Dr. Long has mentored 15+ trainees including PhD students (Emiley Tou, Jaser Doja), postdoctoral fellows (e.g., Wei Zhang, now Assistant Professor at Temple University), and rotation students. Her trainees have secured major independent funding including AHA Second Century Early Faculty Independence Awards, Transformational Project Awards, and NIH K99 grants. She maintains active collaborations with clinical departments and has received continuous NIH and AHA funding supporting her research program.
Her laboratory within the VBC includes a histology core facility and comprises a multidisciplinary team of research scientists, postdoctoral fellows, and students. The lab actively participates in national conferences (Vascular Discovery, AHA Scientific Sessions) and has established partnerships with institutions including Temple University and Ferring Pharmaceuticals, driving innovation in vascular therapeutics through cutting-edge technology and collaborative science.
