posted on 2018-11-13, 12:43authored byALEX LIN-I HUANG
Heart attack is caused by rupture of atherosclerotic plaques and ensuing clot formation. In this project, new approaches to stop blood clotting was investigated. The first approach targeted neutrophils, an immune cell, through a protein called high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1). It was found this approach is effective and safer than current antithrombotic medications. This thesis also demonstrated that inhibiting the protein, proprotein convertase subtilisin convertase type 9 (PCSK9), in addition to lowering cholesterol, also stabilises atherosclerotic plaque. Combined, these findings may improve the outcome of patients with heart attack and stroke.