Education

• Trinity University, San Antonio Tx: B.A., 1990
• University of California, Irvine: Ph.D., 1994
• University of Texas, Southwestern Medical Center: Post-doctoral fellow

Research interests

The cardiovascular state of animals is remarkably dependent on the environment. Foraging of food, consumption of food, presence of predators, procuring a mate, ambient temperature, and general activity are just a few examples of external stimuli that have a substantial impact on homeostasis of the cardiovascular system. Research in the Swoap lab examines the underlying mechanisms for cardiovascular adaptations to both changes in ambient temperature and lack of food availability. Our approach is an integrative one; combining molecular biology, thermal physiology, and cardiovascular physiology. Body temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate measurements are made in genetically modified animals using a telemetry-based system. This allows for accurate physiological measurements in animals that are conscious, unrestrained, and freely moving. The use of mice with known germline mutations allows us to directly test hypotheses that relate caloric intake, ambient temperature, and metabolism with cardiovascular function.

Publications and Grants
Honors Thesis Students