Lüscher
Fakultäten » Medizinische Fakultät » Kardiologie, Klinik für » Prof. Dr. T. F. Lüscher » Lüscher
Completed research project
| Title / Titel | Endothelial Function and Cardiovascular Disease | ||
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| Abstract (PDF, 14 KB) | |||
| Summary / Zusammenfassung | The endothelial layer covers the inner surface of the vessel wall and hence is strategically located at the interface between the circulating blood and the underlying smooth muscle cells. It is capable to integrate a multitude of systemic endocrine signals and local mechanical messages as well as local paracrine and autocrine factors to a finely orchestrated response aimed to maintain homeostasis within the vessel wall. A short-term derangement of these parameters may affect vascular function, while chronic changes will induce changes in vascular structure. Our research aims to improve the understanding of the basic mechanisms and the clinical relevance of these processes by applying a bench-to-bedside approach. Cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes and ageing induce atherogenesis by causing endothelial dysfunction. By testing vascular cells in culture and vessel explants from patients, rats, or mice in organ chambers, we investigate the effects of novel drugs on endothelial function and identify new molecular mediators. A better knowledge of the pathogenesis of vascular disease will allow us to identify novel targets for prevention or treatment of these disorders. | ||
| Project leadership and contacts / Projektleitung und Kontakte |
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| Funding source(s) / Unterstützt durch |
SNF (Personen- und Projektförderung), Foundation, Private Sector (e.g. Industry), Others |
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| Duration of Project / Projektdauer | Oct 2002 to Oct 2005 |