Xinchun Pi

Dr. Xinchun Pi is an Associate Professor at Baylor College of Medicine, affiliated with the Cardiovascular Research Institute (CVRI) and the Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center. Her research focuses on molecular mechanisms governing endothelial cell functions in vascular development and pathologies such as atherosclerosis, diabetes, and cancer.

Education:

• B.S. in Cell and Developmental Biology from Wuhan University (1996)
• M.S. in Biochemistry and Biophysics from Wuhan University (1999)
• Ph.D. in Pharmacology from the University of Rochester (2004)
• Postdoctoral Fellowship in Cardiovascular Research at the University of North Carolina (2008)

Research Interests:

Dr. Pi investigates signaling pathways critical for endothelial function, particularly LRP1 and BMPER-dependent mechanisms. Her work bridges vascular biology with metabolic disorders, exploring how endothelial cells adapt to dynamic physiological demands through metabolic reprogramming and inflammation modulation. Key areas include cholesterol metabolism, fatty acid oxidation, and the role of the vascular endothelium in systemic metabolic homeostasis.

Publications:

Recent work highlights CRAT's role in linking cholesterol metabolism to cardiac immunity and the protective effects of LRP1 depletion on glucose homeostasis. Her studies often integrate cell signaling, metabolic profiling, and in vivo models to dissect endothelial biology in health and disease.

Affiliations:

In addition to CVRI, Dr. Pi collaborates with the Dan L Duncan Cancer Center, reflecting her interest in vascular biology's role in cancer progression and treatment. Her lab integrates molecular biology, biochemistry, and advanced imaging to study endothelial dysfunction in complex pathologies.

Grants & Future Work:

While specific grants aren't listed, her research aligns with NIH-funded areas in cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Ongoing projects aim to translate endothelial signaling discoveries into novel therapeutic strategies for atherosclerosis and diabetes.