I am particularly interested in the development of genetic thoracic aortic anerysms, which occur in the context of inherited disorders such as Marfan Syndrome.  Marfan Syndrome has a high incidence in Eastern Kentucky families and is endemic to the region. My current research focuses on the role of the renin angiotensin system (RAS) in pathogenesis of aortic diseases. RAS is a well-studied endocrine and paracrine pathway with numerous FDA-approved, safe, and effective modulators; there is great promise in developing non-invasive medical treatments to address aortic diseases, which currently can only be definitively treated by surgical repair alone.