Cardiovascular disease: Increasing evidence indicates that during the aging process, arteries become occluded due to a defective wound repair mechanism in the artery wall. Our current studies are examining several pathways by which human vascular cells can become resistant to the natural inhibitors and apoptotic factors that should control their survival and expansion after vascular injury. In particular, we are exploring new mechanisms of resistance to TGF-ß, one of the major wound repair factors. It is hoped that by understanding the mechanisms of resistance, it will be possible to intervene, and restore responsiveness to the natural control mechanisms. Current studies are also using next-generation sequencing technology, especially RNA sequencing to identify novel biomarkers, and therapeutic targets in cardiovascular disease.

Genomics: Genomic technology is one of the main tools for identifying mechanisms of resistance to apoptosis, and disease mechanisms in general. By comparing the expressed genomes from cells that are sensitive to apoptosis with cells that are resistant, we are identifying genes associated with resistance. Our current work is exploiting the most advanced DNA and RNA sequencing platforms to provide unprecedented views of the changes in gene expression in blood during various disease states.