Immunometabolic Cardiovascular Therapeutics
(Dr. Soumaya Ben-Aicha, PhD)
The Immunometabolic Cardiovascular Therapeutics Group investigates the dynamic interactions between metabolic dysfunctions and immune responses in the progression of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The group’s research integrates cutting-edge technologies to uncover molecular and cellular pathways that link metabolic stress—such as hypercholesterolemia, insulin resistance, and lipid overload—to chronic inflammation and tissue damage. A key focus of the team is the discovery and development of novel biomarkers and targeted therapies, with an overarching goal of driving innovation in cardiovascular drug development and personalized medicine.
Key Research Areas
- Metabolic regulation of immune cells in cardiovascular disease: Exploring how metabolic substrates and lipid metabolites modulate immune cell activation and function during atherosclerosis.
- Nanoparticles as mediators of immunometabolic signaling: Investigating the dual role of small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) and lipoproteins as biomarkers and therapeutic tools to modulate inflammation and repair in cardiovascular disorders.
- Targeted therapies for immune-metabolic dysregulation: Developing precision medicine strategies, including nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems, to address immune-mediated cardiovascular damage.
Vision and Approach
Dr. Ben-Aicha’s team employs a translational research framework, combining state-of-the-art technologies such as single-cell transcriptomics, proteomics, and advanced imaging techniques with robust preclinical models. Our moto is that collaborative efforts with clinicians, basic research and industry parners ensure the rapid integration of basic findings into clinical applications.
Recent Highlights
- Identified HDL and lipid nanoparticles as regulators of immune cell phenotypes in hypercholesterolemia.
- Investigated novel therapeutic applications of sEVs in reducing cardiac inflammation.
- Investigated the pericardial immune signature of cavity macrophages in coronary artery disease.
Future Directions
The group aims to:
- Expand the understanding of immunometabolic networks driving cardiovascular disease.
- Translate findings into innovative treatments to improve outcomes for patients with conditions such as atherosclerosis and diabetic cardiomyopathy.
- Use machine learning models to predict immune responses in cardiovascular patients.
- Collaborate across disciplines to advance the frontier of cardiovascular drug discovery.
