The research in Dr Bergdahl's lab focuses on blood flow, driven by the pumping heart and distributed by the blood vessels, with a particular emphasis on pathophysiological events that lead to a shift in homeostasis. The aim is to increase the understanding of this organ system with respect to cell signaling, contractility and, in smooth muscle cells, differentiation markers. The primary goal is to define changes in the heart and vascular wall that are essential for the normal as well as abnormal function. This is achieved through fundamental science and experimental animal research translated into clinical understanding of integrative cardiovascular control in health and disease.