Research Focus

The broad goal of my research is to identify the mechanisms underlying the link between obesity and both cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer risks and prognosis. Obesity is an established risk factor for CVD and predicts CVD risk even when some of the well understood mechanisms, for example high blood pressure and diabetes, are not present. Obesity is also a risk factor for many cancers including postmenopausal breast cancer, and is associated with worse cancer prognosis. My research is primarily focused on understanding how dietary phospholipids could provide a mechanistic link between obesity to these diseases.

My research interests build on the longstanding research focus in the laboratories of Drs. Andrew Morris and Susan Smyth. We use various approaches of biochemistry, genetics, chemical, cell and molecular biology to gain fundamental insights into the metabolism of dietary phospholipids and then apply this information in preclinical and clinical models to explore their potential roles in physiological and disease processes. Using robust state-of-the-art tandem mass spectrometry we have developed methods for the quantitation and profiling of these lipids. My research is currently supported by the National Cancer Institute K01 career development grant.

Programs

College & Department

Contact Information