Dr. John Shyy is a professor for The Institute of Engineering in Medicine (IEM) at UC San Diego School of Medicine. The major aim of his research is to elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which fluid shear stress and mechanical stretch activate gene expression in cells within the cardiovascular system. His recent work has suggested that COVID-19 is not just a respiratory disease but also a vascular disease. Specifically, Dr. Shyy and his team have demonstrated that by binding to Angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (S protein) damages the host vascular cells leading to lung and artery injuries. His current research effort is to further investigate how the SARS-CoV-2 virus damages and attacks the vascular system on a cellular level with the hopes of opening the door for new research into more effective therapies.