My current research focuses on investigating the biological mechanisms of a known cardio-protective therapy. CDC-extracellular vesicles have been shown to protect the heart from further injury following a heart attack, but how they provide this protection is still in question. I have taken multiple approaches to answer this question and continue to work toward better understanding what gives these therapeutic vesicles the ability to protect the heart, ultimately working toward a cell-free, off-the-shelf therapy for patients with acute cardiac injuries.