Previous Research
The Origins of Atherosclerosis
The saphenous vein, located in the leg, is used most often in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) because it's relatively easy to harvest and its length makes it an ideal bridge between multi-target arteries. However, saphenous vein grafts often fail as a result of atherosclerosis that forms in a high percentage of patients following CAB surgery.
Researcher Yoshifumi Naka is investigating the cellular mechanisms that may cause this high rate of restinosis.
These studies are focusing on disruptions in protein generation and function that occur immediately after the saphenous vein is harvested.
Dr. Naka's plan is to treat the vein's endothelial cells with certain additives.
It is hoped that this will improve endothelial function and in the long-term improve the function of the vein as well.
The research team is currently using mouse veins to test this hypothesis.
If successful, this approach could improve outcomes not only in CABG but in other vein graft procedures used to treat cardiovascular disease.
| 
