Abstract:
Atherosclerosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ACVD) is responsible for a third of all global deaths. Although a reduction in morbidity and mortality from ACVD has been achieved recently by lifestyle changes and pharmaceutical intervention, this is expected to reverse in the future because of global increase in risk factors such as hypercholesterolemia, obesity and diabetes. Current pharmaceutical therapies against ACVD are associated with substantial residual risk for the disease together with other issues such as side effects. In addition, pharmaceutical agents against many promising targets have proved disappointing in clinical trials. It is therefore essential that the molecular basis of ACVD is fully understood, and new therapeutic/preventative agents or targets are identified and validated.
The major focus of recent research in my laboratory is to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying the protective actions of natural products in ACVD using a combination of in vitro and in vivo model systems together with biochemical, molecular biology, pharmacological and immunological approaches. Our research has provided novel insights into the mechanisms underlying the protective actions of several nutraceuticals, including fatty acids, polyphenols and probiotic bacteria. In addition to the beneficial effects on ACVD, our studies have revealed protective actions against other inflammatory disorders, particularly non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Our findings on the mechanisms underlying the beneficial actions of key nutraceuticals will be presented.
Audience Take Away:
- The audience will learn about how nutraceuticals can prevent and treat cardiovascular disease.
- The research-led knowledge base will positively impact their jobs.
- The research could be used by other faculty to expand their research or teaching.
- The research could impact therapeutic options available in cardiovascular disease.
- The research could lead to development of new agents to prevent and treat heart disease.
