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Sumathy Mohan, Ph.D.

Professor/Research

Areas of Research Interest: Atherosclerotic lesions typically occur in areas of low shear flow regions. The mechanisms involved in developing these lesions are poorly understood. My long-term goal is first to identify molecular targets. Once this is accomplished it will then be possible to develop strategies for novel interventional procedures and agents to control the development of the disease. I have been studying endothelial cell biology in health and disease, in particular, its responses and gene expression under conditions that influence the process. I have several years of experience in vitro studies in which human vascular endothelial cells are maintained under flow shear stress, which simulate a tissue microenvironment mimicking the in vivo conditions. I have a long-standing interest in examining the alterations in the nuclear factor kappa B regulation under conditions of shear stress which promotes the endothelial cells to be “activated” thus favoring the atherogenic process. I have also extended my expertise in the area of diabetes-research to explore similar possible mechanisms that contribute to accelerated-atherosclerosis in diabetic arteries. These studies reported from my laboratory have demonstrated the profound involvement of endothelial nitric oxide synthase under hyperglycemic conditions. My current studies are focused on determining how the balance of activities of Inhibitor kappa B kinase and endothelial nitric oxide synthase reflect oxidative stress responses of endothelial cells that are induced by high glucose. 

Associated Diseases: Atherosclerosis, Diabetes

Techniques Used: Endothelial cell culture, DNA Transfection, Western Blotting, Nitric oxide Measurement & Shear stress process. 

Research area/Field of study: Vascular Biology

Sub-field of Study: Endothelial Cell Biology  

Specific Field of Study: Diabetes and Atherosclerosis