About our research
The emerging field of cardio-immunology highlights the significant impact of chronic inflammation on cardiovascular health, identifying new therapeutic targets and risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Landmark studies, like the CANTOS trial, have demonstrated how reducing inflammation—specifically by inhibiting IL-1β—can effectively lower major adverse cardiovascular events, underscoring inflammation's central role in disease progression. Immune cell activity, especially in the context of clonal hematopoiesis and somatic mutations like the Y chromosome loss, has been shown to influence cardiovascular health, fueling disease through both direct tissue interactions and systemic inflammatory responses.
Prof. Abplanalp's group is deeply involved in this domain, leveraging advanced technologies to explore how immune cells, particularly T cells, impact cardiovascular outcomes. T cells are increasingly understood not only as predictors of cardiovascular events but also as regulators of cardiovascular function. This research dovetails with pioneering efforts to develop vaccines aimed at preventing atherosclerosis by modulating immune responses, suggesting that cardiovascular disease treatment may soon incorporate immune-based strategies. By advancing knowledge in these areas, Prof. Abplanalp’s team is helping pave the way for innovative, immune-targeted cardiovascular therapies.
