Cardiac physiology is a branch of physiology that focuses on the study of the function, structure, and mechanics of the heart. It involves the study of how the heart works to pump blood throughout the body, the electrical and mechanical properties of the heart muscle, and the regulation of heart rate and blood pressure. Research in cardiac physiology often involves studying the functioning of the heart in health and disease, the interactions between the heart and other systems in the body, and the development of potential treatments for heart conditions. This research is crucial for understanding and treating various cardiovascular diseases, such as heart failure, arrhythmias, and hypertension.