Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology

The ExPT Lab works in the field of redox imbalance in development and disease. Increased oxidative stress - i.e. an imbalance in the cellular redox homeostasis - is observed during e.g. development, aging and inflammation and has been associated with several chronic diseases including atherosclerosis, liver steatosis, diabetes and cancer.

With particular focus on in vivo experimentation including animal models, we study the effects of oxidative insults on the redox homeostasis as well as the possible benefit of intervention with bioactive compounds. We aim to integrate biochemical, pathological and functional outcomes.

Our primary goal is to understand the role and mechanism of altered redox status in disease development and progression and thereby pave the road for better prevention strategies and pharmacotherapy. Key projects involve early brain development impairment and several chronic diseases including diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Deficiency toxicology
The major focus of the lab, involving both internal and external projects, is the study of the molecular, pathological and functional consequences of marginal (subclinical) vitamin C deficiency (as opposed to chronic severe vitamin C deficiency that  leads to scurvy).

Oxidative stress in cardiovascular disease, obesity and diabetes
These projects involve development and validation of biomarkers of oxidative stress in the vasculature in a variety of species (mice, rats, guinea pigs, dogs, pigs, humans) as well as testing drugs and drug candidates in animal models of disease.

Models of cognitive function
In relation to our interest in early brain development, we have recognized cognitive performance as an important functional outcome of impaired growth.

Pharmacokinetics/dynamics
We have a fundamental interest in pharmacokinetic and -dynamic models.