Stephen Chelko

Biography

My laboratory investigates aberrant cell signaling mechanisms that give rise to Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy (ACM), an inherited heart disease characterized by early onset of arrhythmias, cardiac dysfunction, and increased risk of sudden cardiac death. Often referred to as "Sudden Cardiac Death in Young Athletes," patients with ACM display progressive myocardial injury, such as cell death, myocardial inflammation, and fibrofatty infiltration of the heart. All these clinical and pathological phenotypes ultimately lead to heart failure and increased mortality in patients with ACM. In addition to studying abnormal cell signaling pathways, my laboratory tests the efficacy of small molecule inhibitors, repurposed FDA approved drugs, and up-n-coming drugs for potential clinical utility in animal models of ACM. My laboratory performs a variety of functional studies, such as cardiac function via doppler echocardiography and electrocardiography (ECGs), and pathological studies, such as immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence microscopy. I work with a phenomenal team of collaborators, at FSU, nationally, and abroad. My research is funded by foundational, federal, and pharmaceutical industries.

Degrees

• PhD, Physiology and Pharmacology
  University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine ▪ 2011
• BS, Biology
  Emory University ▪ 2007

Awards & Honors

• Fellow of the American College of Cardiology (FACC)
  The American College of Cardiology ▪ 2023
• Fellow of the Heart Rhythm Society (FHRS)
  Heart Rhythm Society ▪ 2022