Research Overview:

The research in Dr. Edwards’ lab is focused on studying the mechanisms of vascular dysfunction in various disease states including coronary artery disease and chronic kidney disease.  In particular his lab is interested in the potential role of reactive oxygen species in reducing nitric oxide availability in humans.

Conduit artery endothelial function is assessed using high resolution ultrasound of the brachial artery.  Additionally, methods of assessing arterial stiffness include carotid to femoral pulse wave velocity and carotid compliance.  The role of oxidative stress can be assessed by intravenous infusion of supraphysiologic levels of ascorbic acid.  The lab is currently using this technique to understand endothelial dysfunction in chronic kidney disease.  These patients are at particularly high risk for cardiovascular events.  The lab plans to begin assessing the mechanisms of microvascular dysfunction in these patients as well through the study of skin blood flow using intradermal microdialysis coupled with laser Doppler flowmetry.  This technique allows for the local infusion of pharmacological substances in order to study the in vivo mechanisms of microvascular dysfunction.

Another focus of the lab is studying the use of aerobic exercise training as a therapy to improve vascular function.  Studies are ongoing in coronary artery disease and chronic kidney disease.  Additionally, the effects of aging and habitual exercise training on the number of circulating endothelial progenitor cells are being studied.  The lab hopes to begin culturing these cells in the near future in order to assess their functional characteristics.

Delaware Biotechnology Institute
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