Overview

Cerebrovascular conditions such as stroke significantly contribute to cognitive impairment and neurodegenerative diseases. Prevention and therapy of neurodegeneration and cognitive impairment remain major unmet needs in modern medicine.

Led by Zvonimir S. Katusic, M.D., Ph.D., the research team in the Vascular Biology Laboratory hopes to help meet that need.

Research in the Katusic lab focuses on the blood vessels of the brain and their role in the pathogenesis of neurodegeneration. We're advancing the hypothesis that intact endothelium provides essential neuroprotective functions. In contrast, impairment of endothelial function induced by cardiovascular risk factors exerts detrimental effects on neurons, astrocytes and microglia, thereby increasing vulnerability of the brain tissue to neurodegeneration and cognitive impairment.

Our long-term goal is to improve understanding of the mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective function of vascular endothelium. In our research investigations, we also use a wide range of experimental models to gain comprehensive mechanistic insights into the development of endothelial dysfunction.

Overall, our research efforts are designed to advance development of therapeutic strategies that preserve and promote the integrity of cerebrovascular endothelium and its capacity to maintain brain health.