Neutralizing Neutrophil Extracellular Traps in Diabetic Cardiovascular Disease
Abstract
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Diabetes Statistics report (2017), an estimated 7.2% of the United States population had been diagnosed with diabetes. The prevalence of diabetes among Veterans is substantially higher. Between 2005 and 2014, the incidence of diabetes increased from 15.5% to 20.5%. Nearly 50% of hospitalizations of Veterans with diabetes involve cardiovascular complications (heart attack, stroke, etc.). Indeed, Veterans are at a higher risk of new onset of cardiovascular disease compared to non-Veterans, and the leading cause of death among Veterans appears to be the result of cardiovascular disease. Neutrophils are the most abundant white blood cells in the bloodstream and are designed to rapidly neutralize infectious organisms. However, when neutrophils are not properly regulated (as happens in diabetes), they can damage the body’s own cells. Here, we will leverage animal models of diabetes, along with cutting-edge metabolite profiling, to determine mechanisms by which neutrophils damage diabetic blood vessels. These preclinical studies will determine the extent to which the neutrophil should be further investigated as a therapeutic target for preventing (and possibly reversing) diabetic cardiovascular disease.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Mar 10, 2021
- Source ID
- W81XWH2010663
Entities
People
- Jason S. Knight
Organizations
- United States Army
- University of Michigan