Athero

Pro-inflammatory, oxidative and atherogenic stress in cells of the vascular wall and in adipose tissue

Atherosclerosis is characterized by arterial lesions obstructing the lumen. Inflammation and oxidation of the LDL (« bad cholesterol »), are known to play a major role in the onset of the lesion. The aim of the research is to investigate and understand the effects of various stressing conditions on both endothelial cells and monocytes/macrophages in culture, in order to get a better insight in the cellular and molecular dysfunctions involved in the onset and evolution of the lesion. The role of the adipose tissue in this pathological context is also evaluated in vivo in relevant murine models in collaboration with the KUL, UCL and UA.

• Effects of lysophosphatidic acid on endothelial cells
• Effects of modified LDL on monocytes/macrophages – Roles of PPAR and NRF-2
• Effects of pro-inflammatory agents on monocytes/macrophages
• Gene expression studies in the adipose tissue of transgenic/KO mice relevant in the context of the metabolic syndrome

Prof. Martine Raes
Professeur
Directrice de l'Unité
Responsable de l'axe de recherche ATHERO