Cardiac Membrane Biology Laboratory

The Cardiac Membrane Biology Laboratory aims to improve the lives of people suffering cardiac related health issues.

Our research focuses on one of the body’s most crucial molecules – a molecule which is vital for the contraction of heart cells and therefore the pumping of the heart. As we develop a better understanding of this molecule through laboratory-based experiments, we explore treatments for heart failure, irregular heartbeat and heart damage following cancer treatment.

Our laboratory-based research has led to the discovery of a new potential treatment for heart failure. We are about to begin a clinical trial of this approach with our collaborators based in Denmark.


Helge HeadshotProf Helge Rasmussen.

Chair of Cardiology
Medicine, Northern Clinical School

Dr Chia-Chi Liu

Honorary Senior Research Fellow

Bei Xu – Research Assistant 

Gideon Jacque - Research Assistant

Grace Marks - MD Research Project Student

PREVENTION OF CARDIAC SIDE EFFECTS OF CANCER TREATMENT

This project will investigate a new drug combination therapy that has potential benefits in cancer treatment induced heart failure by targeting the sodium/potassium pump function.

A NEW DRUG COMBINATION THERAPY FOR HEART FAILURE

This project will investigate a drug combination therapy that has potential benefits in heart failure treatment by targeting the sodium/potassium pump function.

Events, News and Seminars

New report identifies key health challenges

New report identifies key health challenges

The latest global health check has confirmed heart disease remains the world’s biggest killer. The c..... Read more

Category: Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Research Excellence

September 2025 Kolling NEWS

September 2025 Kolling NEWS

Our latest Kolling Institute newsletter is out detailing the very latest updates from our expert tea..... Read more

Category: Awards, Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Musculoskeletal Research, Neuroscience and Pain Research, New Treatment, Research Excellence

Awards point to world-leading cardiac care

Awards point to world-leading cardiac care

Highlighting the talent and expertise at Royal North Shore Hospital and the Kolling Institute, a gro..... Read more

Category: Awards, Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Research Excellence, World-leading technology