Modulation of endothelial cell function in women Dr. Roberts' laboratory is investigating the interaction of reproductive status and endothelial cell biology. A major focus is the alteration of endothelial cell function accompanying the pregnancy disorder, preeclampsia. Additionally, they are testing the hypothesis that during pregnancy vascular endothelium is uniquely sensitive to agents that act on endothelium to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Studies use a wide spectrum of biological, genetic and molecular biological techniques.
Recent Publications Ness RB, Roberts JM . Powers R, Evans R, Majors A, Ojimba J, Ness R, Crombleholme W, Roberts JM . Plasma homocysteine is increased in preeclampsia and is associated with evidence of endothelial activation. Teppa RJ, Ness RB, Crombleholme WR, Roberts JM . Free leptin is increased in normal pregnancy and further increased in preeclampsia.