Thomas H. Hintze, Ph.d.

Biography

Professor and Chairman, says that research in the Department of Physiology can be divided into two broad categories: cardiovascular and neurophysiological. Of the former, Dr. Hintze says, "More than half of all deaths [in the U.S.] are associated with heart disease or vascular-related conditions such as stroke, kidney disease and diabetes. Some of our researchers study normal and disease models of cardiac function, such as heart failure and hypertension, in relation to aging, exercise level and family history. Others examine endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells—either freshly harvested or grown in culture—as well as the regulation of blood pressure and blood flow." Dr. Hintze is exploring the theory that reduced production of nitric oxide in blood vessels of the heart contributes to cardiac complications associated with heart failure and diabetes. To determine the role of exercise in improving the outlook for patients with cardiovascular disease, the group has been examining the beneficial effects of brief periods of moderate exercise, which are thought to increase nitric oxide production. Their studies have shown that enhanced nitric oxide production improves the effectiveness of certain drug therapies, including ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) inhibitors and releasing factors known as statins.

Research Interest

Professor and Chairman, says that research in the Department of Physiology can be divided into two broad categories: cardiovascular and neurophysiological. Of the former, Dr. Hintze says, "More than half of all deaths [in the U.S.] are associated with heart disease or vascular-related conditions such as stroke, kidney disease and diabetes. Some of our researchers study normal and disease models of cardiac function, such as heart failure and hypertension, in relation to aging, exercise level and family history. Others examine endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells—either freshly harvested or grown in culture—as well as the regulation of blood pressure and blood flow." Dr. Hintze is exploring the theory that reduced production of nitric oxide in blood vessels of the heart contributes to cardiac complications associated with heart failure and diabetes. To determine the role of exercise in improving the outlook for patients with cardiovascular disease, the group has been examining the beneficial effects of brief periods of moderate exercise, which are thought to increase nitric oxide production. Their studies have shown that enhanced nitric oxide production improves the effectiveness of certain drug therapies, including ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) inhibitors and releasing factors known as statins.