Minoru Takaoka

The effect of diet-induced immune response on atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the arterial wall and high cholesterol levels in blood accelerate the atherosclerotic plaque progressions. We recently have found the difference in atherosclerotic plaque size between two groups in different types of diet habits. The mechanisms are currently under investigation.

The mechanisms of heart failure induced by irradiation

Radiation therapy is a commonly used treatment for early breast cancer, but this therapy to the left chest has been related with cardiac dysfunction. Irradiation is thought to cause fibrosis in the heart. The mechanisms of the radiation-induced heart disease have been not fully understood yet. We have newly discovered some gene might have an important role in the radiation induced heart failure. We are searching the mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets.

The mechanisms of aortic aneurysm progression and rupture

Aortic aneurysms are a common vascular disease and a major cause of morbidity and mortality in Western populations. The mechanisms of the progression of aortic aneurysms have not been elucidated yet. We have lately observed some molecule might be able to prevent the aortic aneurysm rupture. The further mechanisms how this molecule has affected the aortic aneurysms are under examination.