Three distinguished researchers have been awarded $1 million each by the American Heart Association to conduct groundbreaking research on heart disease treatments and causes. The recipients of the American Heart Association Merit Award are Joseph Loscalzo, M.D., Ph.D., Daniel J. Rader, M.D., and Philip S. Tsao, Ph.D.
Dr. Loscalzo, a physician-scientist from Massachusetts, will investigate whether chemicals naturally occurring in foods can be used to treat heart disease. His research will focus on how these food chemicals interact with proteins in cells and how they can be used to create diets that protect against heart disease.
Dr. Rader, a genetics expert from Pennsylvania, will study new genes and pathways that alter lipid metabolism and cause cardiovascular disease. His research will aim to better understand the molecular mechanisms behind these diseases and identify new therapeutic approaches.
Dr. Tsao, a professor of cardiovascular medicine from California, will examine the impact of vaping on the risk of developing an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). His research will focus on how e-cigarette vapor affects specific genes and worsens AAA growth, with the goal of discovering new ways to treat this life-threatening condition.
The American Heart Association's Merit Award is one of the highest honors given by the Association and supports innovative research with the potential to advance cardiovascular science. According to Joseph C. Wu, M.D., Ph.D., FAHA, American Heart Association volunteer president, the recipients of this award are "true innovators who propose novel approaches to major research challenges in the areas of heart disease, stroke, and brain health."
The funding of these research projects reflects the American Heart Association's commitment to advancing heart and brain health. Since 1949, the Association has funded over $5.7 billion in cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and brain health research, making it the largest non-government supporter of such research in the United States.
The research conducted by Dr. Loscalzo, Dr. Rader, and Dr. Tsao has the potential to make significant contributions to the field of cardiovascular science. Their work will not only lead to a better understanding of heart disease but may also pave the way for new treatments and preventive measures.
As Joseph C. Wu emphasizes, "As a recipient of this award in 2017, I know it comes with great honor and, also, great responsibility. This year's recipients are already recognized leaders in the field of cardiovascular research, and I know they will meet the next challenges before them as champions of transformative science in our fight against heart disease and stroke."
The American Heart Association's investment in scientific research and discovery has had a profound impact on millions of lives worldwide. The knowledge gained from this funding has led to life-saving advancements in heart and brain health. As the Association celebrates its 100-year history, it continues to forge ahead into a future of bold discovery and impact, with the vision of advancing health and hope for everyone, everywhere.
To learn more, click on this link: https://newsroom.heart.org/news/three-researchers-awarded-1-million-each-to-study-new-heart-disease-treatments-causes
