Angiogenesis is a key factor in the placentation process and vascular remodelling that involves growth factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Initial data suggest that docosahexaneoic acid (DHA) stimulates the expression of VEGF (a potent angiogenic factor) in first trimester trophoblast cells.
This important finding can be expanded further in the prevention of preeclampsia. Further work is going to understand the mechanisms involved in DHA stimulated VEGF synthesis in these cells.
In addition my group has a long term interest on the roles of fruits on human blood platelet function. Platelet activity plays a major role in the development as well as in the stability of atherosclerotic plaques. Recently I have isolated anti-thrombotic factors from a fruit.
Further work on human trial using the extract will be under taken soon. My research activities received some international and commercial companies’ funding only, but no national funding so far.