Research
Research Focus
Advancing the understanding of immune-mediated metabolic processes to combat heart failure and chronic inflammatory conditions.
Chronic Inflammation and Immune Dysregulation in Heart Failure
Our lab explores how unresolved chronic inflammation, driven by splenic leukocytes, impacts cardiac repair and contributes to both ischemic and non-ischemic heart failure. By studying inflammatory and resolving lipid mediators, we aim to discover therapeutic interventions that optimize cardiac repair, particularly for high-risk populations such as those with obesity, diabetes, or aging-related complications.
Key Findings .
- Female Advantage in Heart Failure Recovery: Our recent study demonstrated that female mice exhibit greater cardiac repair after heart attacks due to elevated reparative immune cells and anti-inflammatory signaling.
- Impact of High-Fat Diet on Aging: Published findings show that high-fat diets in older mice increase risks of heart disease and diabetes, emphasizing lifestyle's role in cardiometabolic health.
Integrative Approaches in Lipid Metabolism and Leukocyte Activation
The lab investigates how lipid metabolism influences leukocyte-driven chronic inflammation in cancer and cardiac disease. Our research focuses on leukocytes’ conversion of fatty acids to bioactive lipids and their interaction with inflammation-resolution receptors, such as FPR2, with potential implications for managing colon cancer, heart failure, and metabolic disorders.
Key Findings
- Lipoxygenase Pathways: We are elucidating how leukocytes metabolize fatty acids into bioactive compounds that can modulate inflammation and tissue repair.
- Lifestyle to Medicine Translation: Emphasizing lifestyle factors, including diet and physical activity, alongside targeted therapies for personalized care.
Finding Cures
Our mission is to develop individualized therapies that mitigate chronic inflammation and improve cardiac and metabolic health through innovative research focused on immune and lipid interactions.
Support
Our research is driven by collaboration, innovation, and the desire to make a tangible difference in human health. We appreciate ongoing support to further expand our investigations into inflammation-mediated diseases and potential therapeutic pathways.