The research described in this thesis shows that hypercholesterolemia, a well-established risk factor for atherosclerosis, can impact skin lipid pool and barrier function already at young age. In... Show moreThe research described in this thesis shows that hypercholesterolemia, a well-established risk factor for atherosclerosis, can impact skin lipid pool and barrier function already at young age. In the field of atherosclerosis, we showed that the small peptide Lyp-1 can be used as a targeting molecule in liposomal formulations to deliver liver X receptor agonist to plaque resident foam cells/lipid-rich macrophages. Elucidation of the mechanisms underlying the intercommunication between plasma lipids and skin lipids may also bring valuable opportunities to prevent and treat dermatological pathologies in dyslipidemic patients; perhaps in combination with anti-atherogenic therapies. Thus, by deepening our knowledge we may improve our advice to the patients and ultimately improve their quality of life. Show less
This thesis aimed to provide evidence that supports a central role for NGCs in CVD by studying the expression, regulation and function of neuronal guidance cues (NGCs) in endothelial cells and... Show moreThis thesis aimed to provide evidence that supports a central role for NGCs in CVD by studying the expression, regulation and function of neuronal guidance cues (NGCs) in endothelial cells and monocytes, the 2 cells types that play main role in development of atherosclerosis. The findings laid the foundation for future research of NGCs as novel tar- gets for intervention of atherosclerosis. Show less
Cardiometabolic diseases including atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are the leading cause of preventable death worldwide.... Show moreCardiometabolic diseases including atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are the leading cause of preventable death worldwide. Hypercholesterolemia and inflammation are common major risk factors for atherosclerotic CVD as well as NAFLD. The studies described in this thesis aimed to get insight in strategies how to further improve cholesterol metabolism and inflammation, by exploring the therapeutic potential of brown fat activation and transcription factors involved in both processes. The results described in this thesis have increased our insight into regulation of cholesterol metabolism and inflammation by brown fat and nuclear receptors, respectively, and provided promising leads for innovative treatment of cardiometabolic diseases including brown fat activation, Δ24-dehydrocholesterol reductase inhibition, and farnesoid X receptor activation. Show less
