Pathophysiological role of chronic inflammation in aging-associated diseases

Research Project Outline

Chronic inflammation is associated with aging-associated diseases, such as heart failure, diabetes, and atherosclerosis: however, its pathophysiological role is currently unknown. We recently found an increase in the C1q component of the complement system in multiple tissues of aged animals that contributed to the onset of heart failure, diabetes, and atherosclerosis. The objective of this study is to identify the mechanisms by which C1q encourages the onset of aging-associated diseases and to develop novel therapeutic strategies for these diseases associated with chronic inflammation.