Abstract

Atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disorder of medium and large arteries and the underlying cause of myocardial infarction and cerebrovascular accidents, is responsible for more global deaths than any other disease. A slight reduction in morbidity and mortality from atherosclerosis and its complications has been seen recently, at least in the western world, due to lifestyle changes and pharmaceutical interventions (e.g. statins). However, the global burden from this disease is expected to worsen in the near future, particularly in developing countries, because of recent increases in risk factors such as obesity and diabetes. Current pharmaceutical treatments for atherosclerosis are associated with considerable residual risk for cardiovascular disease together with various side effects. With the exception of few successes (e.g. ezetimibe, PCSK9 inhibitors), many pharmaceutical leads against established targets have proved disappointing at the clinical level. It is therefore important that further research is carried out on the molecular basis of atherosclerosis together with alternative therapies for its prevention and treatment.

The major focus of research in my laboratory is to understand the molecular basis of atherosclerosis using in vitro and in vivo model systems together with the actions of preventative/therapeutic agents. Our research has particularly provided novel insights into the actions of cytokines and nutraceuticals. This presentation will discuss new perspectives in the field of atherosclerosis research and opportunities for drug discovery, current therapies against the disease and their limitations, emerging therapies targeting lipid metabolism and the inflammatory response, and the potential of natural products as preventative/therapeutic agents.