Caitlin C. O'Meara, PhD is an Associate Professor in the Department of Physiology at the Medical College of Wisconsin and a member of the Cardiovascular Research Center. Her research program focuses on understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying cardiac regeneration and repair following injury. Dr. O'Meara's research interests center on cardiac regeneration mechanisms, with particular focus on: Cardiomyocyte proliferation and cell cycle regulation IL-4/IL-13 signaling pathways in cardiac repair Cardiac macrophage function in regeneration Genetic regulation of heart function Cardiac remodeling after myocardial infarction Her most recent publications (2023-2025) demonstrate continued innovation in methodologies for measuring cardiomyocyte division and understanding the complex interplay between immune signaling and cardiac repair mechanisms. The research shows a clear trajectory toward translating basic findings into potential therapeutic approaches for heart disease. Notable scientific contributions include: Elucidating the role of IL-13 in promoting functional recovery after myocardial infarction Demonstrating that Runx1 influences but is not essential for cardiomyocyte cell-cycle activation Developing novel methods for quantifying cardiomyocyte cell division Revealing the adverse cardiac effects of IL4Rα blockade Dr. O'Meara maintains an active research program with consistent publication output, demonstrating strong mentorship through numerous collaborative projects and contributing significantly to the understanding of cardiac regeneration mechanisms. Her work bridges basic science and potential clinical applications for improving cardiac outcomes after injury.