Abhinav Diwan, MD, a highly regarded cardiologist with expertise in the molecular underpinnings of cardiovascular disease, has been named the inaugural Charlie W. Shaeffer, MD, Professor of Cardiology at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis.
Diwan was installed by David H. Perlmutter, MD, executive vice chancellor for medical affairs, the George and Carol Bauer Dean of the School of Medicine, and the Spencer T. and Ann W. Olin Distinguished Professor.
Diwan’s team studies the mechanisms underlying cardiac dysfunction in cardiovascular diseases and heart failure. His lab has identified lysosome dysfunction as a contributor to cardiac disease progression. Lysosomes are compartments within cells that act like garbage disposals; they contain digestive enzymes that are involved with the breakdown of dying cells and the destruction of invading viruses and other pathogens. His laboratory is supported by grants from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Diwan’s team also has implicated lysosomal dysfunction as a contributor to atherosclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes, underscoring similarities that could point to common therapeutic strategies across a range of diseases. His lab ultimately aims to look at how lysosomes can be targeted to enhance health, prolong life span and treat diseases.
“Dr. Shaeffer has a long history of patient care and advocacy toward better cardiovascular health, and we are grateful that this professorship will continue supporting innovative research into reducing the burden of cardiovascular disease,” said Chancellor Andrew D. Martin. “It is a pleasure to recognize Dr. Diwan with this professorship. He is a dedicated physician-scientist whose groundbreaking research could lead to new and better ways to treat or prevent heart disease, the leading cause of death globally.”
Diwan, also a professor of medicine, of neurology, of cell biology and physiology, and of obstetrics and gynecology at the School of Medicine, joined the Cardiovascular Division faculty in 2008. He practices general cardiology and specializes in echocardiography, the use of ultrasound to image the heart to evaluate its structure and function. He treats patients at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and the John Cochran VA Medical Center, where he also serves as chief of the Division of Cardiology.
“Dr. Diwan is an exceptionally talented physician-scientist and a dedicated mentor,” Perlmutter said. “His work in lysosome biology is leading to the identification of novel targets for improving treatment of heart disease. His work builds on the dedication and impact of Charles Shaeffer’s advocacy and work to reduce the burden of heart disease.”