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Department of Pharmacology
Weijun Jin, M.D.

Education:

1995

M.D.

Sun Yat-Sen University of Medical Sciences (China)

Research Summary:
Plasma levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol are strongly inversely associated with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Several antiatherogenic properties of HDL has been shown including promotion of cellular cholesterol efflux and reverse cholesterol transport, as well as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant properties. Currently, HDL metabolism is recognized as a potential target for therapeutic intervention of atherosclerotic vascular diseases. However, the molecular regulation of HDL metabolism is not fully understood. We try to explore the role of extracellular lipases in the lipoprotein metabolism and premature atherosclerotic disease. Using molecular and cell biology approaches in vitro and in vivo, we will further dissect how these vital enzymes contribute the complex lipid metabolism network, how they are regulated to maintain lipid homeostasis and how they impact on cardiovascular diseases, especially atherosclerosis. Ultimately, the understanding of the physiological and pathologic roles of these lipases will alllow us to develop effective ways to target specific disorders of lipid metabolism, especially HDL catabolism, and eventually reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.