![Dipak Ramji BSc, PhD (Leeds), FLSW](https://profiles-cardiff.imgix.net/attachments/1182?w=200&h=200&auto=format&crop=faces&fit=crop&q=90")
Professor Dipak Ramji
(he/him)
BSc, PhD (Leeds), FLSW
Deputy Head of School
School of Biosciences
- Available for postgraduate supervision
Overview
Biography
Dipak Ramji is Professor of Cardiovascular Science and Deputy Head of the School of Biosciences at Cardiff University. He is also Fellow of the Learned Society of Wales. He received his BSc (Hons) degree (Biochemistry) and his PhD (Molecular Biology) from the University of Leeds. This was followed by post-doctoral research at EMBL (Heidelberg) and IRBM (Rome) with fellowships from the Royal Society and the EU. His current research is focused on atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and other inflammatory disorders (see below for more details). He has published over 150 research articles with >9,000 citations, including a 880-page book in 2022 on Methods in Atherosclerosis. He is an Editorial Board member of many international journals, member of the British Heart Foundation Project Grants Committee, external examiner of taught programmes at three universities and has supervised 28 PhD students to completion.
Inflammation, Atherosclerosis, Cardiovascular Disease and Regulation of Gene Expression
The overall focus of research in my laboratory is on understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the changes in key cellular processes during inflammatory disorders such as atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease with the goal of identifying new therapeutic/preventative targets/avenues.
My research employs a combination of cell culture and mouse model systems coupled with molecular, biochemical, immunological and pharmacological approaches.
Specific focus is on understanding how inflammation via cytokines regulates key processes associated with the development of atherosclerosis together with the molecular mechanisms underlying the actions of natural products (nutraceuticals) in the prevention and treatment of this disease.
Nutraceuticals investigated include polyunsaturated fatty acids, polyphenols and probiotic bacteria.
Previous and current research has been funded by grants from the British Heart Foundation, Wellcome Trust, BBSRC, MRC, EU, International Governments and Industry.
Roles
- Deputy Head of Cardiff School of Biosciences
- Fellow of the Learned Society of Wales
- Member of the British Heart Foundation Project Grants Committee from May 2024
- Chair of the Wales Heart Research Institute (WHRI) Cardiovascular Fund
- Member of the Learned Society of Wales STEMM2 (Biology: Molecular Sciences to Ecosystems) Scrutiny Committee
- Member of Workload Modelling Group at Cardiff University
- Member of Biological Standards Committee at Cardiff University
- Member of College of Biomedical and Life Sciences EDI group
- Member of University Staff Survey 2023 Working Group
- External Examiner for BSc/MSci Biochemistry Programme at Keele University
- External Examiner for MSc in Translational Cardiovascular Medicine at University of Bristol
- External Examiner for MBiol/BSc Biological Sciences & MBiol/BSc Biological Sciences (Biotechnology with Enterprise) programmes at University of Leeds
Interested in joining my lab as a self-funded post-graduate student or a postdoc/fellow? Please contact me by email.
Publication
2023
- Mazzarino, M. et al. 2023. Therapeutic targeting of chronic kidney disease-associated DAMPs differentially contributing to vascular pathology. Frontiers in Immunology 14, article number: 1240679. (10.3389/fimmu.2023.1240679)
- Chan, Y. et al. 2023. (+)-catechin attenuates multiple atherosclerosis-associated processes in vitro, modulates disease-associated risk factors in C57BL/6J mice and reduces atherogenesis in LDL receptor deficient mice by inhibiting inflammation and increasing markers of plaque stability. Molecular Nutrition & Food Research 67(14), article number: 2200716. (10.1002/mnfr.202200716)
- Alalawi, S., Albalawi, F. and Ramji, D. P. 2023. The role of punicalagin and its metabolites in atherosclerosis and risk factors associated with the disease. International Journal of Molecular Sciences 24(10), article number: 8476. (10.3390/ijms24108476)
- O'Morain, V. L., Chen, J., Plummer, S. F., Michael, D. R. and Ramji, D. P. 2023. Anti-Atherogenic actions of the Lab4b consortium of probiotics in vitro. International Journal of Molecular Sciences 24(4), article number: 3639. (10.3390/ijms24043639)
- Takala, R., Ramji, D. P. and Choy, E. 2023. The beneficial effects of pine nuts and its major fatty acid, pinolenic acid, on inflammation and metabolic perturbations in inflammatory disorders. International Journal of Molecular Sciences 24(2), article number: 1171. (10.3390/ijms24021171)
2022
- Zabetakis, I. et al. eds. 2022. Functional foods and their implications for health promotion. Elsevier.
- Takala, R. et al. 2022. Pinolenic acid exhibits Anti-inflammatory and Anti-atherogenic effects in Peripheral blood- derived Monocytes from patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis. Scientific Reports 12, article number: 8807. (10.1038/s41598-022-12763-8)
- Takala, R., Ramji, D. P., Andrews, R., Zhou, Y., Burston, J. and Choy, E. 2022. Anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory effects of pinolenic acid in rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatology 61(3), pp. 992-1004. (10.1093/rheumatology/keab467)
- Ramji, D. P. ed. 2022. Atherosclerosis: Methods and protocols. Methods in Molecular Biology. New York: Humana Press. (10.1007/978-1-0716-1924-7)
- Chan, Y., Alotibi, R., Alahmadi, A. and Ramji, D. P. 2022. Monitoring cellularity and expression of key in atherosclerotic plaques. In: Ramji, D. ed. Atherosclerosis: Methods and Protocols., Vol. 2419. Methods in Molecular Biology Springer, pp. 497-506., (10.1007/978-1-0716-1924-7_30)
- Chan, Y., Alahmadi, A., Alotibi, R. and Ramji, D. P. 2022. Evaluation of plaque burden and in atherosclerotic plaques. In: Ramji, D. ed. Atherosclerosis: Methods and Protocols., Vol. 2419. Methods in Molecular Biology Springer, pp. 481-496., (10.1007/978-1-0716-1924-7_29)
- Chan, Y. and Ramji, D. P. 2022. Probing inflammasome activation in atherosclerosis. In: Ramji, D. ed. Atherosclerosis: Methods and Protocols., Vol. 2419. Methods in Molecular Biology New York, NY: Springer, pp. 313-331., (10.1007/978-1-0716-1924-7_20)
- Chan, Y. and Ramji, D. P. 2022. Investigation of mitochondrial bioenergetic profile and dysfunction in atherosclerosis. In: Ramji, D. ed. Atherosclerosis: Methods and Protocols., Vol. 2419. Methods in Molecular Biology New York, NY: Springer, (10.1007/978-1-0716-1924-7_19)
- Alahmadi, A. and Ramji, D. P. 2022. Monitoring modified lipoprotein uptake and macropinocytosis associated with macrophage foam cell formation. In: Ramji, D. ed. Atherosclerosis: Methods and Protocols., Vol. 2419. Methods in Molecular Biology New York, NY: Springer, pp. 247-255., (10.1007/978-1-0716-1924-7_14)
- Ramji, D. P., Chan, Y., Alahmadi, A., Alotibi, R. and Alshehri, N. 2022. Survey of approaches for investigation of atherosclerosis in vivo. In: Ramji, D. ed. Atherosclerosis: Methods and Protocols., Vol. 2419. Methods in Molecular Biology New York, NY: Springer, pp. 57-72., (10.1007/978-1-0716-1924-7_4)
- Ramji, D. P., Ismail, A., Chen, J., Alradi, F. and Al Alawi, S. 2022. Survey of in vitro model systems for Investigation of key cellular processes associated with atherosclerosis. In: Ramji, D. P. ed. Atherosclerosis: Methods and Protocols., Vol. 2419. New York, NY: Springer, pp. 39-56., (10.1007/978-1-0716-1924-7_3)
- Chan, Y. and Ramji, D. P. 2022. Key roles of inflammation in atherosclerosis: mediators involved in orchestrating the inflammatory response and its resolution in the disease along with therapeutic avenues targeting inflammation. In: Ramji, D. ed. Atherosclerosis: Methods and Protocols., Vol. 2419. Methods in Molecular Biology New York, NY: Springer, pp. 21-37., (10.1007/978-1-0716-1924-7_2)
- Chan, Y. and Ramji, D. P. 2022. Atherosclerosis: pathogenesis and key cellular processes, current and emerging therapies, key challenges, and future research directions. In: Ramji, D. ed. Atherosclerosis: Methods and Protocols., Vol. 2419. Methods in Molecular Biology New York, NY: Springer, pp. 3-19., (10.1007/978-1-0716-1924-7_1)
2021
- Al-Ahmadi, W. et al. 2021. Pro-atherogenic actions of signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 serine 727 phosphorylation in LDL receptor deficient mice via modulation of plaque inflammation. FASEB Journal 35(10), article number: e21892. (10.1096/fj.202100571RR)
- O'Morain, V. L. et al. 2021. The Lab4P consortium of probiotics attenuates atherosclerosis in LDL receptor deficient mice fed a high fat diet and causes plaque stabilization by inhibiting inflammation and several pro-atherogenic processes. Molecular Nutrition & Food Research 65(17), article number: 2100214. (10.1002/mnfr.202100214)
- Moss, J. W. E. et al. 2021. Protective effects of a unique combination of nutritionally active ingredients on risk factors and gene expression associated with atherosclerosis in C57BL/6J mice fed a high fat diet. Food and Function 12(8), pp. 3657-3671. (10.1039/D0FO02867C)
2020
- Chan, Y. and Ramji, D. 2020. A perspective on targeting inflammation and cytokine actions in atherosclerosis. Future Medicinal Chemistry 12(7), pp. 613-626. (10.4155/fmc-2019-0301)
- O'Morain, V. and Ramji, D. P. 2020. The potential of probiotics in the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis. Molecular Nutrition and Food Research 64(4), article number: 1900797. (10.1002/mnfr.201900797)
2019
- Gallagher, H. et al. 2019. Dihimo-γ-linolenic acid inhibits several key cellular processes associated with atherosclerosis. BBA - Molecular Basis of Disease 1865(9), pp. 2538-2550. (10.1016/j.bbadis.2019.06.011)
- Buckley, M. L., Williams, J. O., Chan, Y., Laubertova, L., Gallagher, H., Moss, J. W. E. and Ramji, D. P. 2019. The interleukin-33-mediated inhibition of expression of two key genes implicated in atherosclerosis in human macrophages requires MAP kinase, phosphoinositide 3-kinase and nuclear factor-κB signaling pathways. Scientific Reports 9, article number: 11317. (10.1038/s41598-019-47620-8)
- Ramji, D. P. 2019. Polyunsaturated fatty acids and atherosclerosis: insights from pre-clinical studies. European Journal of Lipid Science and Technology 121(1), article number: 1800029. (10.1002/ejlt.201800029)
2018
- Moss, J., Williams, J. and Ramji, D. 2018. Nutraceuticals as therapeutic agents for atherosclerosis. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta - Molecular Basis of Disease 1864(5. A.), pp. 1562-1572. (10.1016/j.bbadis.2018.02.006)
2017
- Moss, J. and Ramji, D. 2017. Cytokines in Atherosclerosis. In: Foti, M. and Locati, M. eds. Cytokine Effector Functions in Tissues. Academic Press, pp. 109-118.
- Gallagher, H., Moss, J., Williams, J., Davies, T., Al-Ahmadi, W., O'Morain, V. and Ramji, D. 2017. Nutraceuticals in the prevention and treatment of Atherosclerosis. Cardiology 137(S1), pp. 264. (10.1159/000477751)
- Michael, D. R. et al. 2017. The anti-cholesterolaemic effect of a consortium of probiotics: An acute study in C57BL/6J mice. Scientific Reports 7, article number: 2883. (10.1038/s41598-017-02889-5)
2016
- Salter, R. C., Foka, P., Davies, T. S., Gallagher, H., Michael, D. R., Ashlin, T. G. and Ramji, D. P. 2016. The role of mitogen-activated protein kinases and sterol receptor coactivator-1 in TGF-β-regulated expression of genes implicated in macrophage cholesterol uptake. Scientific Reports 6, article number: 34368. (10.1038/srep34368)
- Moss, J. W. E. and Ramji, D. P. 2016. Nutraceutical therapies for atherosclerosis. Nature Reviews Cardiology 13(9), pp. 513-532. (10.1038/nrcardio.2016.103)
- Moss, J. and Ramji, D. P. 2016. Cytokines: roles in atherosclerosis disease progression and potential therapeutic targets. Future Medicinal Chemistry 8(11), pp. 1317-1330. (10.4155/fmc-2016-0072)
- Davies, T., Gallagher, H., Moss, J. W. E., Jaffar, F., Al-Ahmadi, W., Harris, F. and Ramji, D. 2016. The action of Nutraceuticals on key macrophage processes associated with Atherosclerosis. Cardiology 134(S1), pp. 314-314. (10.1159/000447505)
- Ramji, D., Davies, T., Gallagher, H., Moss, J., Faizah, J. and Al-Ahmadi, W. 2016. Cytkines in atherosclerosis: molecular mechanisms underlying their actions and promising therapeutic targets [Abstract]. Journal of Clinical and Experimental Cardiology 7(6), pp. 52-52.
- Ramji, D., Davies, T., Gallagher, H., Moss, J., Faizah, J. and Al-Ahmadi, W. 2016. Nutraceuticals as preventative and therapeutic agents in atherosclerosis. Journal of Clinical and Experimental Cardiology 7(6), pp. 31-31. (10.4172/2155-9880.C1.029)
- Michael, D. R., Moss, J. W. E., Calvente, D. L., Garaiova, I., Plummer, S. F. and Ramji, D. 2016. Lactobacillus plantarum CUL66 can impact cholesterol homeostasis in Caco-2 enterocytes. Beneficial Microbes 7(3), pp. 443-451. (10.3920/BM2015.0146)
- Moss, J. W. E., Davies, T. S., Garaiova, I., Plummer, S. F., Michael, D. R. and Ramji, D. P. 2016. A unique combination of nutritionally active ingredients can prevent several key processes associated with atherosclerosis in vitro. PLoS ONE 11(3), article number: e0151057. (10.1371/journal.pone.0151057)
2015
- Ramji, D. P. and Davies, T. S. 2015. Cytokines in atherosclerosis: key players in all stages of disease and promising therapeutic targets. Cytokine & Growth Factor Reviews 26(6), pp. 673-685. (10.1016/j.cytogfr.2015.04.003)
- Huwait, E. A., Singh, N. N., Michael, D. R., Davies, T., Moss, J. W. E. and Ramji, D. P. 2015. Protein Kinase C is involved in the induction of ATP-Binding cassette transporter A1 expression by liver X receptor/retinoid X receptor agonist in human macrophages. Journal of Cellular Biochemistry 116(9), pp. 2032-2038. (10.1002/jcb.25157)
- Moss, J. and Ramji, D. P. 2015. Interferon-γ: Promising therapeutic target in atherosclerosis. World Journal of Experimental Medicine 5(3), pp. 154-159. (10.5493/wjem.v5.i3.154)
- Buckley, M. and Ramji, D. P. 2015. The influence of dysfunctional signaling and lipid homeostasis in mediating the inflammatory responses during atherosclerosis. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta - Molecular Basis of Disease 1852(7), pp. 1498-1510. (10.1016/j.bbadis.2015.04.011)
- Michael, D. R., Davies, T., Laubertová, L., Gallagher, H. and Ramji, D. P. 2015. The phosphoinositide 3-kinase signaling pathway is involved in the control of modified low-density lipoprotein uptake by human macrophages. Lipids 50(3), pp. 253-260. (10.1007/s11745-015-3993-0)
- Davies, T. S., Gallagher, H., Jaafar, F., Moss, J. W., Hughes, T. R. and Ramji, D. P. 2015. Interferon gamma signalling in atherosclerosis: pro-atherogenic actions and therapeutic approaches. Cardiology 131, pp. 292-292.
2014
- Willis, G. R. et al. 2014. Young women with polycystic ovary syndrome have raised levels of circulating annexin V-positive platelet microparticles. Human Reproduction 29(12), pp. 2756-2763. (10.1093/humrep/deu281)
- Davies, T. S., Li, N., McLaren, J., Hughes, T. R. and Ramji, D. P. 2014. Pro- therogenic actions of interferon-gamma on macrophages in atherosclerosis. Cardiology 128(S1), pp. 278-278. (10.1159/000365062)
- Ashlin, T. G., Buckley, M., Salter, R. C., Johnson, J. L., Kwan, A. P. L. and Ramji, D. 2014. The anti-atherogenic cytokine interleukin-33 inhibits the expression of a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs-1,-4 and-5 in human macrophages: Requirement of extracellular signal-regulated kinase, c-Jun N-terminal kinase and phosphoinositide 3-kinase signaling pathways. The International Journal of Biochemistry & Cell Biology 46, pp. 113-123. (10.1016/j.biocel.2013.11.008)
2013
- Michael, D. R., Ashlin, T. G., Davies, C. S., Gallagher, H., Stoneman, T. W., Buckley, M. and Ramji, D. P. 2013. Differential regulation of macropinocytosis in macrophages by cytokines: Implications for foam cell formation and atherosclerosis. Cytokine 64(1), pp. 357-361. (10.1016/j.cyto.2013.05.016)
- Ashlin, T. G., Kwan, A. P. L. and Ramji, D. P. 2013. Regulation of ADAMTS-1, -4 and -5 expression in human macrophages: differential regulation by key cytokines implicated in atherosclerosis and novel synergism between TL1A and IL-17. Cytokine 64(1), pp. 234-242. (10.1016/j.cyto.2013.06.315)
2012
- Michael, D. R., Salter, R. C. and Ramji, D. P. 2012. TGF-β inhibits the uptake of modified low density lipoprotein by human macrophages through a Smad-dependent pathway: A dominant role for Smad-2. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta - Molecular Basis of Disease 1822(10), pp. 1608-1616. (10.1016/j.bbadis.2012.06.002)
- Michael, D. R., Ashlin, T. G., Buckley, M. and Ramji, D. P. 2012. Liver X receptors, atherosclerosis and inflammation. Current Atherosclerosis Reports 14(3), pp. 284-293. (10.1007/s11883-012-0239-y)
- Michael, D. R., Ashlin, T. G., Buckley, M. and Ramji, D. P. 2012. Macrophages, lipid metabolism and gene expression in atherogenesis: a therapeutic target of the future?. Clinical Lipidology 7(1), pp. 37-48. (10.2217/clp.11.73)
2011
- McLaren, J. E., Michael, D. R., Guschina, I., Harwood, J. L. and Ramji, D. P. 2011. Eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid regulate modified LDL uptake and macropinocytosis in human macrophages. Lipids 46(11), pp. 1053-1061.
- McLaren, J. E., Michael, D. R., Ashlin, T. G. and Ramji, D. P. 2011. Cytokines, macrophage lipid metabolism and foam cells: implications for cardiovascular disease therapy. Progress in Lipid Research 50(4), pp. 331-347. (10.1016/j.plipres.2011.04.002)
- Salter, R. et al. 2011. The expression of a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 4 in human macrophages is inhibited by the anti-atherogenic cytokine transforming growth factor-β and requires Smads, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and c-Jun. The International Journal of Biochemistry & Cell Biology 43(5), pp. 805-811. (10.1016/j.biocel.2011.02.005)
- Huwait, E., Greenow, K. R., Singh, N. and Ramji, D. P. 2011. A novel role for c-Jun N-terminal kinase and phosphoinositide 3-kinase in the liver X receptor-mediated induction of macrophage gene expression. Cellular Signalling 23(3), pp. 542-549. (10.1016/j.cellsig.2010.11.002)
- Li, N., Salter, R. C. and Ramji, D. P. 2011. Molecular mechanisms underlying the inhibition of IFN-γ-induced, STAT1-mediated gene transcription in human macrophages by simvastatin and agonists of PPARs and LXRs. Journal of Cellular Biochemistry 112(2), pp. 675-683. (10.1002/jcb.22976)
2010
- McLaren, J. E. et al. 2010. In vitro promotion of macrophage foam cell formation by Death Receptor 3 and its ligand TL1A. Immunology 131(1), pp. 103-103.
- Li, N., McLaren, J. E., Michael, D. R., Clement, M., Fielding, C. A. and Ramji, D. P. 2010. ERK is integral to the IFN-γ-mediated activation of STAT1, the expression of key genes implicated in atherosclerosis, and the uptake of modified lipoproteins by human macrophages. The Journal of Immunology 185(5), pp. 3041-3048. (10.4049/jimmunol.1000993)
- McLaren, J. E. et al. 2010. IL-33 reduces macrophage foam cell formation. The Journal of Immunology 185(2), pp. 1222-1229. (10.4049/jimmunol.1000520)
- McLaren, J. E. et al. 2010. The TNF-like protein 1A-death receptor 3 pathway promotes macrophage foam cell formation in vitro. Journal of Immunology 184(10), pp. 5827-5834. (10.4049/jimmunol.0903782)
- Salter, R. C., Ashlin, T. G., Kwan, A. P. L. and Ramji, D. P. 2010. ADAMTS proteases: key roles in atherosclerosis?. Journal of Molecular Medicine 88(12), pp. 1203-1211. (10.1007/s00109-010-0654-x)
- Ali, S., Singh, N. N., Yildirim, H. and Ramji, D. P. 2010. Requirement for nuclear factor kappa B signalling in the interleukin-1-induced expression of the CCAAT/enhancer binding protein-delta gene in hepatocytes. International Journal of Biochemistry & Cell Biology 42(1), pp. 113-119. (10.1016/j.biocel.2009.09.018)
2009
- McLaren, J. E. and Ramji, D. P. 2009. Interferon gamma: A master regulator of atherosclerosis. Cytokine & Growth Factor Reviews 20(2), pp. 125-135. (10.1016/j.cytogfr.2008.11.003)
- Ramji, D. P. 2009. Growth hormone-releasing peptides, CD36, and stimulation of cholesterol efflux: cyclooxygenase-2 is the link. Cardiovascular Research 83(3), pp. 419-420. (10.1093/cvr/cvp195)
- Foka, P., Singh, N. N., Salter, R. C. and Ramji, D. P. 2009. The tumour necrosis factor-a-mediated suppression of the CCAAT/enhancer binding protein-a gene transcription in hepatocytes involves inhibition of autoregulation. International Journal of Biochemistry & Cell Biology 41(5), pp. 1189-1197. (10.1016/j.biocel.2008.10.024)
2008
- Singh, N. N., Salter, R. C. and Ramji, D. P. 2008. Molecular mechanisms underlying transforming growth factor-beta-induced expression of the apolipoprotein E gene [Abstract]. Atherosclerosis Supplements 9(1), pp. 21. (10.1016/S1567-5688(08)70078-3)
- Ramji, D. P., Singh, N. N., Li, N., Salter, R. C., Harvey, E. J. and Foka, P. 2008. Cytokine signalling in macrophages and the expression of key genes implicated in atherosclerosis [Abstract]. Atherosclerosis Supplements 9(1), pp. 53. (10.1016/S1567-5688(08)70209-5)
- Harris, S. M., Harvey, E. J., Hughes, T. R. and Ramji, D. P. 2008. The interferon-γ-mediated inhibition of lipoprotein lipase gene transcription in macrophages involves casein kinase 2- and phosphoinositide-3-kinase-mediated regulation of transcription factors Sp1 and Sp3. Cellular Signalling 20(12), pp. 2296-2301. (10.1016/j.cellsig.2008.08.016)
- Singh, N. N. and Ramji, D. P. 2008. Protein kinase CK2, an important regulator of the inflammatory response?. Journal of Molecular Medicine 86(8), pp. 887-897. (10.1007/s00109-008-0352-0)
2007
- Singh, N. N. et al. 2007. Signaling pathways underlying cytokine regulated expression of key genes in macrophages implicated in atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis Supplements 8(1), pp. 4-4.
- Harvey, E. J., Li, N. and Ramji, D. . P. 2007. Critical role for casein kinase 2 and phosphoinositide-3-kinase in the interferon- -induced expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and other key genes implicated in atherosclerosis. Arteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology 27(4), pp. 806-812. (10.1161/01.ATV.0000258867.79411.96)
2006
- Monslow, J. et al. 2006. Sp1 and Sp3 mediate constitutive transcription of the human hyaluronan synthase 2 gene. The Journal of Biological Chemistry 281(26), pp. 18043-18050. (10.1074/jbc.M510467200)
- Foka, P. et al. 2006. Signalling pathways underlying transforming growth factor-beta regulated expression of key genes implicated in the control of foam cell formation. Atherosclerosis Supplements 7(3), pp. 237-237.
- Kockar, F., Yildirim, H. and Ramji, D. P. 2006. Molecular characterisation and comparative analysis of the human C/EBP delta promoter to mammalian homologues. FEBS Letters 273, pp. 334-334.
- Singh, N. N., Ramji, D. P., Foka, P., Irvine, S. A. and Arnaoutakis, K. 2006. Transforming growth factor-b-regulated expression of genes in macrophages implicated in the control of cholesterol homoeostasis. Biochemical Society Transactions 34(6), pp. 1141-1141. (10.1042/BST0341141)
- Singh, N. N. and Ramji, D. P. 2006. The role of transforming growth factor-β in atherosclerosis. Cytokine & Growth Factor Reviews 17(6), pp. 487-499. (10.1016/j.cytogfr.2006.09.002)
- Singh, N. N. and Ramji, D. P. 2006. Transforming growth factor-β-induced expression of the apolipoprotein e gene requires c-Jun N-terminal kinase, p38 kinase, and casein kinase 2. Arteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology 26(6), pp. 1323-1329. (10.1161/01.ATV.0000220383.19192.55)
- Irvine, S. A., Martin, J., Hughes, T. R. and Ramji, D. P. 2006. Lipoprotein lipase is expressed by glomerular mesangial cells. The International Journal of Biochemistry & Cell Biology 38(1), pp. 12-16. (10.1016/j.biocel.2005.07.008)
2005
- Harvey, E. J. and Ramji, D. P. 2005. Up-regulation of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and the monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 receptor (CCR2) in macrophages by the pro-inflammatory cytokine interferon-gamma. Arteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology 25(5), pp. E64-E64.
- Foka, P. et al. 2005. Molecular mechanisms involved in the cytokine-regulated expression of genes in macrophages implicated in foam cell formation and atherosclerosis. Arteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology 25(5), pp. E71-E71.
- Irvine, S. A., Foka, P., Rogers, S. A., Mead, J. R. and Ramji, D. P. 2005. A critical role for the Sp1-binding sites in the transforming growth factor-β-mediated inhibition of lipoprotein lipase gene expression in macrophages. Nucleic Acids Research, pp. 1423-1434. (10.1093/nar/gki280)
- Harvey, E. J. and Ramji, D. P. 2005. Interferon-γ and atherosclerosis: pro- or anti-atherogenic?. Cardiovascular Research 67(1), pp. 11-20. (10.1016/j.cardiores.2005.04.019)
- Greenow, K., Pearce, N. J. and Ramji, D. . P. 2005. The key role of apolipoprotein E in atherosclerosis. Journal of Molecular Medicine 83(5), pp. 329-342. (10.1007/s00109-004-0631-3)
2004
- Greenow, K. R., Pearce, N. and Ramji, D. P. 2004. A critical role for the phosphoinositide-3-kinase signal transduction pathway in the activation of apolipoprotein E gene expression. Atherosclerosis Supplements 5(1), pp. 25-25. (10.1016/S1567-5688(04)90110-4)
- Foka, P., Irvine, S. and Ramji, D. P. 2004. Regulation of CCAAT/enhancer binding protein-alpha gene transcription by interleukin-6. Atherosclerosis Supplements 5(1), pp. 31-31.
- Irvine, S. A., Foka, P. and Ramji, D. P. 2004. Transcriptional regulation of macrophage lipoprotein lipase gene expression by transforming growth factor-beta. Atherosclerosis Supplements 5(1), pp. 31-32. (10.1016/S1567-5688(04)90137-2)
- Ramji, D. P. et al. 2004. Signal transduction pathways and transcriptional control mechanisms involved in the cytokine-mediated, regulation of key genes in macrophages implicated in foam cell formation and atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis Supplements 5(1), pp. 29-30.
2003
- Foka, P., Irvine, S. A., Kockar, F. T. and Ramji, D. P. 2003. Interleukin-6 represses the transcription of the CCAAT/enhancer binding protein-α in hepatoma cells by inhibiting its ability to autoactivate the proximal promoter region. Nucleic Acids Research, pp. 6722-6732. (10.1093/nar/gkg861)
- Ramji, D. P., Hughes, T. R., Irvine, S. A., Mead, J. R., Foka, P., Evans, S. and Harvey, E. 2003. Novel pathways for cytokine-mediated regulation of macrophage lipoprotein lipase gene expression. Atherosclerosis Supplements 4(2), pp. 62-62. (10.1016/S1567-5688(03)90263-7)
- Mead, J. R., Hughes, T. R., Irvine, S. A., Singh, N. N. and Ramji, D. P. 2003. Interferon-γ stimulates the expression of the inducible cAMP early repressor in macrophages through the activation of casein kinase 2: A Potentially novel pathway for interferon-γ-mediated inhibition of gene transcription. Journal of Biological Chemistry, pp. 17741-17751. (10.1074/jbc.M301602200)
2002
- Ramji, D. P. and Foka, P. 2002. CCAAT/Enhancer binding proteins: structure, function and regulation. Biochemical Journal 365, pp. 561-575. (10.1042/BJ20020508)
- Mead, J. R. and Ramji, D. P. 2002. The pivotal role of lipoprotein lipase in atherosclerosis. Cardiovascular Research 55(2), pp. 261-269. (10.1016/S0008-6363(02)00405-4)
- Hughes, T. R., Tengku-Muhammad, T. S., Irvine, S. A. and Ramji, D. P. 2002. A novel role of Sp1 and Sp3 in the interferon- -mediated suppression of macrophage lipoprotein lipase gene transcription. Journal of Biological Chemistry 277(13), pp. 11097-11106. (10.1074/jbc.M106774200)
- Mead, J., Irvine, S. and Ramji, D. P. 2002. Lipoprotein lipase: structure, function, regulation, and role in disease. Journal of Molecular Medicine 80(12), pp. 753-769. (10.1007/s00109-002-0384-9)
2001
- Kockar, F. T., Foka, P., Hughes, T. R., Kousteni, S. and Ramji, D. P. 2001. Analysis of the Xenopus laevis CCAAT-enhancer binding protein α gene promoter demonstrates species-specific differences in the mechanisms for both auto-activation and regulation by Sp1. Nucleic Acids Research 29(2), pp. 362-372. (10.1093/nar/29.2.362)
- Foka, P., Kousteni, S. and Ramji, D. P. 2001. Molecular characterization of the xenopus CCAAT-enhancer binding protein β gene promoter. Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications 285(2), pp. 430-436. (10.1006/bbrc.2001.5203)
2000
- Tengku-Muhammad, T. S., Hughes, T. R., Ranki, H., Cryer, A. and Ramji, D. P. 2000. Differential regulation of macrophage ccaat- enhancer binding protein isoforms by lipopolysaccharide and cytokines. Cytokine 12(9), pp. 1430-1436. (10.1006/cyto.2000.0711)
- Granger, R. L., Hughes, T. R. and Ramji, D. P. 2000. Gene, stimulus and cell-type specific regulation of activator protein-1 in mesangial cells by lipopolysaccharide and cytokines. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Gene Structure and Expression 1492(1), pp. 100-107. (10.1016/S0167-4781(00)00089-0)
- Granger, R. L., Hughes, T. R. and Ramji, D. P. 2000. Stimulus- and cell-type-specific regulation of CCAAT-enhancer binding protein isoforms in glomerular mesangial cells by lipopolysaccharide and cytokines. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta - Molecular Basis of Disease 1501(2-3), pp. 171-179. (10.1016/S0925-4439(00)00016-8)
- Tengku-Muhammad, T. S., Hughes, T. R., Foka, P., Cryer, A. and Ramji, D. P. 2000. Cytokine-mediated differential regulation of macrophage activator protein-1 genes. Cytokine 12(6), pp. 720-726. (10.1006/cyto.1999.0620)
- Davies, G. E., Sabatakos, G., Cryer, A. and Ramji, D. P. 2000. The ovine CCAAT-enhancer binding protein δ gene: cloning, characterization, and species-specific autoregulation. Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications 271(2), pp. 346-352. (10.1006/bbrc.2000.2630)
1999
- Mead, J. R., Cryer, A. and Ramji, D. P. 1999. Lipoprotein lipase, a key role in atherosclerosis?. FEBS Letters 462(1-2), pp. 1-6. (10.1016/S0014-5793(99)01495-7)
- Kousteni, S., Tura-Kockar, F. and Ramji, D. P. 1999. Sequence and expression analysis of a novel Xenopus laevis cDNA that encodes a protein similar to bacterial and chloroplast ribosomal protein L24. Gene 235(1-2), pp. 13-18. (10.1016/S0378-1119(99)00221-8)
- Tengku-Muhammad, T. S., Hughes, T., Cryer, A. and Ramji, D. P. 1999. Involvement of both the tyrosine kinase and the phosphatidylinositol-3 ' kinase signal transduction pathways in the regulation of lipoprotein lipase expression in J774.2 macrophages by cytokines and lipopolysaccharide. Cytokine 11(7), pp. 463-468. (10.1006/cyto.1998.0460)
- Tengku-Muhammad, T. S., Hughes, T. R., Cryer, A. and Ramji, D. . P. 1999. Synergism between lipopolysaccharide and interferon gamma in the regulation of lipoprotein lipase in macrophages. Cytokine 11(6), pp. 408-415. (10.1006/cyto.1998.0447)
1998
- Sabatakos, G., Kousteni, S., Cryer, A. and Ramji, D. P. 1998. Rapid communication: Nucleotide sequence of ovine C/EBP epsilon gene. Journal of Animal Science 76(11), pp. 2953-2954.
- Kousteni, S., Kockar, F. T., Sweeney, G. E. and Ramji, D. P. 1998. Characterisation and developmental regulation of the Xenopus laevis CCAAT-enhancer binding protein β gene. Mechanisms of Development 77(2), pp. 143-148. (10.1016/S0925-4773(98)00128-2)
1997
- Kousteni, S., Tura, F., Sweeney, G. E. and Ramji, D. P. 1997. Sequence and expression analysis of a Xenopus laevis cDNA which encodes a homologue of mammalian 14-3-3 zeta protein. Gene 190(2), pp. 279-285. (10.1016/S0378-1119(97)00013-9)
Articles
- Mazzarino, M. et al. 2023. Therapeutic targeting of chronic kidney disease-associated DAMPs differentially contributing to vascular pathology. Frontiers in Immunology 14, article number: 1240679. (10.3389/fimmu.2023.1240679)
- Chan, Y. et al. 2023. (+)-catechin attenuates multiple atherosclerosis-associated processes in vitro, modulates disease-associated risk factors in C57BL/6J mice and reduces atherogenesis in LDL receptor deficient mice by inhibiting inflammation and increasing markers of plaque stability. Molecular Nutrition & Food Research 67(14), article number: 2200716. (10.1002/mnfr.202200716)
- Alalawi, S., Albalawi, F. and Ramji, D. P. 2023. The role of punicalagin and its metabolites in atherosclerosis and risk factors associated with the disease. International Journal of Molecular Sciences 24(10), article number: 8476. (10.3390/ijms24108476)
- O'Morain, V. L., Chen, J., Plummer, S. F., Michael, D. R. and Ramji, D. P. 2023. Anti-Atherogenic actions of the Lab4b consortium of probiotics in vitro. International Journal of Molecular Sciences 24(4), article number: 3639. (10.3390/ijms24043639)
- Takala, R., Ramji, D. P. and Choy, E. 2023. The beneficial effects of pine nuts and its major fatty acid, pinolenic acid, on inflammation and metabolic perturbations in inflammatory disorders. International Journal of Molecular Sciences 24(2), article number: 1171. (10.3390/ijms24021171)
- Takala, R. et al. 2022. Pinolenic acid exhibits Anti-inflammatory and Anti-atherogenic effects in Peripheral blood- derived Monocytes from patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis. Scientific Reports 12, article number: 8807. (10.1038/s41598-022-12763-8)
- Takala, R., Ramji, D. P., Andrews, R., Zhou, Y., Burston, J. and Choy, E. 2022. Anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory effects of pinolenic acid in rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatology 61(3), pp. 992-1004. (10.1093/rheumatology/keab467)
- Al-Ahmadi, W. et al. 2021. Pro-atherogenic actions of signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 serine 727 phosphorylation in LDL receptor deficient mice via modulation of plaque inflammation. FASEB Journal 35(10), article number: e21892. (10.1096/fj.202100571RR)
- O'Morain, V. L. et al. 2021. The Lab4P consortium of probiotics attenuates atherosclerosis in LDL receptor deficient mice fed a high fat diet and causes plaque stabilization by inhibiting inflammation and several pro-atherogenic processes. Molecular Nutrition & Food Research 65(17), article number: 2100214. (10.1002/mnfr.202100214)
- Moss, J. W. E. et al. 2021. Protective effects of a unique combination of nutritionally active ingredients on risk factors and gene expression associated with atherosclerosis in C57BL/6J mice fed a high fat diet. Food and Function 12(8), pp. 3657-3671. (10.1039/D0FO02867C)
- Chan, Y. and Ramji, D. 2020. A perspective on targeting inflammation and cytokine actions in atherosclerosis. Future Medicinal Chemistry 12(7), pp. 613-626. (10.4155/fmc-2019-0301)
- O'Morain, V. and Ramji, D. P. 2020. The potential of probiotics in the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis. Molecular Nutrition and Food Research 64(4), article number: 1900797. (10.1002/mnfr.201900797)
- Gallagher, H. et al. 2019. Dihimo-γ-linolenic acid inhibits several key cellular processes associated with atherosclerosis. BBA - Molecular Basis of Disease 1865(9), pp. 2538-2550. (10.1016/j.bbadis.2019.06.011)
- Buckley, M. L., Williams, J. O., Chan, Y., Laubertova, L., Gallagher, H., Moss, J. W. E. and Ramji, D. P. 2019. The interleukin-33-mediated inhibition of expression of two key genes implicated in atherosclerosis in human macrophages requires MAP kinase, phosphoinositide 3-kinase and nuclear factor-κB signaling pathways. Scientific Reports 9, article number: 11317. (10.1038/s41598-019-47620-8)
- Ramji, D. P. 2019. Polyunsaturated fatty acids and atherosclerosis: insights from pre-clinical studies. European Journal of Lipid Science and Technology 121(1), article number: 1800029. (10.1002/ejlt.201800029)
- Moss, J., Williams, J. and Ramji, D. 2018. Nutraceuticals as therapeutic agents for atherosclerosis. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta - Molecular Basis of Disease 1864(5. A.), pp. 1562-1572. (10.1016/j.bbadis.2018.02.006)
- Gallagher, H., Moss, J., Williams, J., Davies, T., Al-Ahmadi, W., O'Morain, V. and Ramji, D. 2017. Nutraceuticals in the prevention and treatment of Atherosclerosis. Cardiology 137(S1), pp. 264. (10.1159/000477751)
- Michael, D. R. et al. 2017. The anti-cholesterolaemic effect of a consortium of probiotics: An acute study in C57BL/6J mice. Scientific Reports 7, article number: 2883. (10.1038/s41598-017-02889-5)
- Salter, R. C., Foka, P., Davies, T. S., Gallagher, H., Michael, D. R., Ashlin, T. G. and Ramji, D. P. 2016. The role of mitogen-activated protein kinases and sterol receptor coactivator-1 in TGF-β-regulated expression of genes implicated in macrophage cholesterol uptake. Scientific Reports 6, article number: 34368. (10.1038/srep34368)
- Moss, J. W. E. and Ramji, D. P. 2016. Nutraceutical therapies for atherosclerosis. Nature Reviews Cardiology 13(9), pp. 513-532. (10.1038/nrcardio.2016.103)
- Moss, J. and Ramji, D. P. 2016. Cytokines: roles in atherosclerosis disease progression and potential therapeutic targets. Future Medicinal Chemistry 8(11), pp. 1317-1330. (10.4155/fmc-2016-0072)
- Davies, T., Gallagher, H., Moss, J. W. E., Jaffar, F., Al-Ahmadi, W., Harris, F. and Ramji, D. 2016. The action of Nutraceuticals on key macrophage processes associated with Atherosclerosis. Cardiology 134(S1), pp. 314-314. (10.1159/000447505)
- Ramji, D., Davies, T., Gallagher, H., Moss, J., Faizah, J. and Al-Ahmadi, W. 2016. Cytkines in atherosclerosis: molecular mechanisms underlying their actions and promising therapeutic targets [Abstract]. Journal of Clinical and Experimental Cardiology 7(6), pp. 52-52.
- Ramji, D., Davies, T., Gallagher, H., Moss, J., Faizah, J. and Al-Ahmadi, W. 2016. Nutraceuticals as preventative and therapeutic agents in atherosclerosis. Journal of Clinical and Experimental Cardiology 7(6), pp. 31-31. (10.4172/2155-9880.C1.029)
- Michael, D. R., Moss, J. W. E., Calvente, D. L., Garaiova, I., Plummer, S. F. and Ramji, D. 2016. Lactobacillus plantarum CUL66 can impact cholesterol homeostasis in Caco-2 enterocytes. Beneficial Microbes 7(3), pp. 443-451. (10.3920/BM2015.0146)
- Moss, J. W. E., Davies, T. S., Garaiova, I., Plummer, S. F., Michael, D. R. and Ramji, D. P. 2016. A unique combination of nutritionally active ingredients can prevent several key processes associated with atherosclerosis in vitro. PLoS ONE 11(3), article number: e0151057. (10.1371/journal.pone.0151057)
- Ramji, D. P. and Davies, T. S. 2015. Cytokines in atherosclerosis: key players in all stages of disease and promising therapeutic targets. Cytokine & Growth Factor Reviews 26(6), pp. 673-685. (10.1016/j.cytogfr.2015.04.003)
- Huwait, E. A., Singh, N. N., Michael, D. R., Davies, T., Moss, J. W. E. and Ramji, D. P. 2015. Protein Kinase C is involved in the induction of ATP-Binding cassette transporter A1 expression by liver X receptor/retinoid X receptor agonist in human macrophages. Journal of Cellular Biochemistry 116(9), pp. 2032-2038. (10.1002/jcb.25157)
- Moss, J. and Ramji, D. P. 2015. Interferon-γ: Promising therapeutic target in atherosclerosis. World Journal of Experimental Medicine 5(3), pp. 154-159. (10.5493/wjem.v5.i3.154)
- Buckley, M. and Ramji, D. P. 2015. The influence of dysfunctional signaling and lipid homeostasis in mediating the inflammatory responses during atherosclerosis. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta - Molecular Basis of Disease 1852(7), pp. 1498-1510. (10.1016/j.bbadis.2015.04.011)
- Michael, D. R., Davies, T., Laubertová, L., Gallagher, H. and Ramji, D. P. 2015. The phosphoinositide 3-kinase signaling pathway is involved in the control of modified low-density lipoprotein uptake by human macrophages. Lipids 50(3), pp. 253-260. (10.1007/s11745-015-3993-0)
- Davies, T. S., Gallagher, H., Jaafar, F., Moss, J. W., Hughes, T. R. and Ramji, D. P. 2015. Interferon gamma signalling in atherosclerosis: pro-atherogenic actions and therapeutic approaches. Cardiology 131, pp. 292-292.
- Willis, G. R. et al. 2014. Young women with polycystic ovary syndrome have raised levels of circulating annexin V-positive platelet microparticles. Human Reproduction 29(12), pp. 2756-2763. (10.1093/humrep/deu281)
- Davies, T. S., Li, N., McLaren, J., Hughes, T. R. and Ramji, D. P. 2014. Pro- therogenic actions of interferon-gamma on macrophages in atherosclerosis. Cardiology 128(S1), pp. 278-278. (10.1159/000365062)
- Ashlin, T. G., Buckley, M., Salter, R. C., Johnson, J. L., Kwan, A. P. L. and Ramji, D. 2014. The anti-atherogenic cytokine interleukin-33 inhibits the expression of a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs-1,-4 and-5 in human macrophages: Requirement of extracellular signal-regulated kinase, c-Jun N-terminal kinase and phosphoinositide 3-kinase signaling pathways. The International Journal of Biochemistry & Cell Biology 46, pp. 113-123. (10.1016/j.biocel.2013.11.008)
- Michael, D. R., Ashlin, T. G., Davies, C. S., Gallagher, H., Stoneman, T. W., Buckley, M. and Ramji, D. P. 2013. Differential regulation of macropinocytosis in macrophages by cytokines: Implications for foam cell formation and atherosclerosis. Cytokine 64(1), pp. 357-361. (10.1016/j.cyto.2013.05.016)
- Ashlin, T. G., Kwan, A. P. L. and Ramji, D. P. 2013. Regulation of ADAMTS-1, -4 and -5 expression in human macrophages: differential regulation by key cytokines implicated in atherosclerosis and novel synergism between TL1A and IL-17. Cytokine 64(1), pp. 234-242. (10.1016/j.cyto.2013.06.315)
- Michael, D. R., Salter, R. C. and Ramji, D. P. 2012. TGF-β inhibits the uptake of modified low density lipoprotein by human macrophages through a Smad-dependent pathway: A dominant role for Smad-2. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta - Molecular Basis of Disease 1822(10), pp. 1608-1616. (10.1016/j.bbadis.2012.06.002)
- Michael, D. R., Ashlin, T. G., Buckley, M. and Ramji, D. P. 2012. Liver X receptors, atherosclerosis and inflammation. Current Atherosclerosis Reports 14(3), pp. 284-293. (10.1007/s11883-012-0239-y)
- Michael, D. R., Ashlin, T. G., Buckley, M. and Ramji, D. P. 2012. Macrophages, lipid metabolism and gene expression in atherogenesis: a therapeutic target of the future?. Clinical Lipidology 7(1), pp. 37-48. (10.2217/clp.11.73)
- McLaren, J. E., Michael, D. R., Guschina, I., Harwood, J. L. and Ramji, D. P. 2011. Eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid regulate modified LDL uptake and macropinocytosis in human macrophages. Lipids 46(11), pp. 1053-1061.
- McLaren, J. E., Michael, D. R., Ashlin, T. G. and Ramji, D. P. 2011. Cytokines, macrophage lipid metabolism and foam cells: implications for cardiovascular disease therapy. Progress in Lipid Research 50(4), pp. 331-347. (10.1016/j.plipres.2011.04.002)
- Salter, R. et al. 2011. The expression of a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 4 in human macrophages is inhibited by the anti-atherogenic cytokine transforming growth factor-β and requires Smads, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and c-Jun. The International Journal of Biochemistry & Cell Biology 43(5), pp. 805-811. (10.1016/j.biocel.2011.02.005)
- Huwait, E., Greenow, K. R., Singh, N. and Ramji, D. P. 2011. A novel role for c-Jun N-terminal kinase and phosphoinositide 3-kinase in the liver X receptor-mediated induction of macrophage gene expression. Cellular Signalling 23(3), pp. 542-549. (10.1016/j.cellsig.2010.11.002)
- Li, N., Salter, R. C. and Ramji, D. P. 2011. Molecular mechanisms underlying the inhibition of IFN-γ-induced, STAT1-mediated gene transcription in human macrophages by simvastatin and agonists of PPARs and LXRs. Journal of Cellular Biochemistry 112(2), pp. 675-683. (10.1002/jcb.22976)
- McLaren, J. E. et al. 2010. In vitro promotion of macrophage foam cell formation by Death Receptor 3 and its ligand TL1A. Immunology 131(1), pp. 103-103.
- Li, N., McLaren, J. E., Michael, D. R., Clement, M., Fielding, C. A. and Ramji, D. P. 2010. ERK is integral to the IFN-γ-mediated activation of STAT1, the expression of key genes implicated in atherosclerosis, and the uptake of modified lipoproteins by human macrophages. The Journal of Immunology 185(5), pp. 3041-3048. (10.4049/jimmunol.1000993)
- McLaren, J. E. et al. 2010. IL-33 reduces macrophage foam cell formation. The Journal of Immunology 185(2), pp. 1222-1229. (10.4049/jimmunol.1000520)
- McLaren, J. E. et al. 2010. The TNF-like protein 1A-death receptor 3 pathway promotes macrophage foam cell formation in vitro. Journal of Immunology 184(10), pp. 5827-5834. (10.4049/jimmunol.0903782)
- Salter, R. C., Ashlin, T. G., Kwan, A. P. L. and Ramji, D. P. 2010. ADAMTS proteases: key roles in atherosclerosis?. Journal of Molecular Medicine 88(12), pp. 1203-1211. (10.1007/s00109-010-0654-x)
- Ali, S., Singh, N. N., Yildirim, H. and Ramji, D. P. 2010. Requirement for nuclear factor kappa B signalling in the interleukin-1-induced expression of the CCAAT/enhancer binding protein-delta gene in hepatocytes. International Journal of Biochemistry & Cell Biology 42(1), pp. 113-119. (10.1016/j.biocel.2009.09.018)
- McLaren, J. E. and Ramji, D. P. 2009. Interferon gamma: A master regulator of atherosclerosis. Cytokine & Growth Factor Reviews 20(2), pp. 125-135. (10.1016/j.cytogfr.2008.11.003)
- Ramji, D. P. 2009. Growth hormone-releasing peptides, CD36, and stimulation of cholesterol efflux: cyclooxygenase-2 is the link. Cardiovascular Research 83(3), pp. 419-420. (10.1093/cvr/cvp195)
- Foka, P., Singh, N. N., Salter, R. C. and Ramji, D. P. 2009. The tumour necrosis factor-a-mediated suppression of the CCAAT/enhancer binding protein-a gene transcription in hepatocytes involves inhibition of autoregulation. International Journal of Biochemistry & Cell Biology 41(5), pp. 1189-1197. (10.1016/j.biocel.2008.10.024)
- Singh, N. N., Salter, R. C. and Ramji, D. P. 2008. Molecular mechanisms underlying transforming growth factor-beta-induced expression of the apolipoprotein E gene [Abstract]. Atherosclerosis Supplements 9(1), pp. 21. (10.1016/S1567-5688(08)70078-3)
- Ramji, D. P., Singh, N. N., Li, N., Salter, R. C., Harvey, E. J. and Foka, P. 2008. Cytokine signalling in macrophages and the expression of key genes implicated in atherosclerosis [Abstract]. Atherosclerosis Supplements 9(1), pp. 53. (10.1016/S1567-5688(08)70209-5)
- Harris, S. M., Harvey, E. J., Hughes, T. R. and Ramji, D. P. 2008. The interferon-γ-mediated inhibition of lipoprotein lipase gene transcription in macrophages involves casein kinase 2- and phosphoinositide-3-kinase-mediated regulation of transcription factors Sp1 and Sp3. Cellular Signalling 20(12), pp. 2296-2301. (10.1016/j.cellsig.2008.08.016)
- Singh, N. N. and Ramji, D. P. 2008. Protein kinase CK2, an important regulator of the inflammatory response?. Journal of Molecular Medicine 86(8), pp. 887-897. (10.1007/s00109-008-0352-0)
- Singh, N. N. et al. 2007. Signaling pathways underlying cytokine regulated expression of key genes in macrophages implicated in atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis Supplements 8(1), pp. 4-4.
- Harvey, E. J., Li, N. and Ramji, D. . P. 2007. Critical role for casein kinase 2 and phosphoinositide-3-kinase in the interferon- -induced expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and other key genes implicated in atherosclerosis. Arteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology 27(4), pp. 806-812. (10.1161/01.ATV.0000258867.79411.96)
- Monslow, J. et al. 2006. Sp1 and Sp3 mediate constitutive transcription of the human hyaluronan synthase 2 gene. The Journal of Biological Chemistry 281(26), pp. 18043-18050. (10.1074/jbc.M510467200)
- Foka, P. et al. 2006. Signalling pathways underlying transforming growth factor-beta regulated expression of key genes implicated in the control of foam cell formation. Atherosclerosis Supplements 7(3), pp. 237-237.
- Kockar, F., Yildirim, H. and Ramji, D. P. 2006. Molecular characterisation and comparative analysis of the human C/EBP delta promoter to mammalian homologues. FEBS Letters 273, pp. 334-334.
- Singh, N. N., Ramji, D. P., Foka, P., Irvine, S. A. and Arnaoutakis, K. 2006. Transforming growth factor-b-regulated expression of genes in macrophages implicated in the control of cholesterol homoeostasis. Biochemical Society Transactions 34(6), pp. 1141-1141. (10.1042/BST0341141)
- Singh, N. N. and Ramji, D. P. 2006. The role of transforming growth factor-β in atherosclerosis. Cytokine & Growth Factor Reviews 17(6), pp. 487-499. (10.1016/j.cytogfr.2006.09.002)
- Singh, N. N. and Ramji, D. P. 2006. Transforming growth factor-β-induced expression of the apolipoprotein e gene requires c-Jun N-terminal kinase, p38 kinase, and casein kinase 2. Arteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology 26(6), pp. 1323-1329. (10.1161/01.ATV.0000220383.19192.55)
- Irvine, S. A., Martin, J., Hughes, T. R. and Ramji, D. P. 2006. Lipoprotein lipase is expressed by glomerular mesangial cells. The International Journal of Biochemistry & Cell Biology 38(1), pp. 12-16. (10.1016/j.biocel.2005.07.008)
- Harvey, E. J. and Ramji, D. P. 2005. Up-regulation of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and the monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 receptor (CCR2) in macrophages by the pro-inflammatory cytokine interferon-gamma. Arteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology 25(5), pp. E64-E64.
- Foka, P. et al. 2005. Molecular mechanisms involved in the cytokine-regulated expression of genes in macrophages implicated in foam cell formation and atherosclerosis. Arteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology 25(5), pp. E71-E71.
- Irvine, S. A., Foka, P., Rogers, S. A., Mead, J. R. and Ramji, D. P. 2005. A critical role for the Sp1-binding sites in the transforming growth factor-β-mediated inhibition of lipoprotein lipase gene expression in macrophages. Nucleic Acids Research, pp. 1423-1434. (10.1093/nar/gki280)
- Harvey, E. J. and Ramji, D. P. 2005. Interferon-γ and atherosclerosis: pro- or anti-atherogenic?. Cardiovascular Research 67(1), pp. 11-20. (10.1016/j.cardiores.2005.04.019)
- Greenow, K., Pearce, N. J. and Ramji, D. . P. 2005. The key role of apolipoprotein E in atherosclerosis. Journal of Molecular Medicine 83(5), pp. 329-342. (10.1007/s00109-004-0631-3)
- Greenow, K. R., Pearce, N. and Ramji, D. P. 2004. A critical role for the phosphoinositide-3-kinase signal transduction pathway in the activation of apolipoprotein E gene expression. Atherosclerosis Supplements 5(1), pp. 25-25. (10.1016/S1567-5688(04)90110-4)
- Foka, P., Irvine, S. and Ramji, D. P. 2004. Regulation of CCAAT/enhancer binding protein-alpha gene transcription by interleukin-6. Atherosclerosis Supplements 5(1), pp. 31-31.
- Irvine, S. A., Foka, P. and Ramji, D. P. 2004. Transcriptional regulation of macrophage lipoprotein lipase gene expression by transforming growth factor-beta. Atherosclerosis Supplements 5(1), pp. 31-32. (10.1016/S1567-5688(04)90137-2)
- Ramji, D. P. et al. 2004. Signal transduction pathways and transcriptional control mechanisms involved in the cytokine-mediated, regulation of key genes in macrophages implicated in foam cell formation and atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis Supplements 5(1), pp. 29-30.
- Foka, P., Irvine, S. A., Kockar, F. T. and Ramji, D. P. 2003. Interleukin-6 represses the transcription of the CCAAT/enhancer binding protein-α in hepatoma cells by inhibiting its ability to autoactivate the proximal promoter region. Nucleic Acids Research, pp. 6722-6732. (10.1093/nar/gkg861)
- Ramji, D. P., Hughes, T. R., Irvine, S. A., Mead, J. R., Foka, P., Evans, S. and Harvey, E. 2003. Novel pathways for cytokine-mediated regulation of macrophage lipoprotein lipase gene expression. Atherosclerosis Supplements 4(2), pp. 62-62. (10.1016/S1567-5688(03)90263-7)
- Mead, J. R., Hughes, T. R., Irvine, S. A., Singh, N. N. and Ramji, D. P. 2003. Interferon-γ stimulates the expression of the inducible cAMP early repressor in macrophages through the activation of casein kinase 2: A Potentially novel pathway for interferon-γ-mediated inhibition of gene transcription. Journal of Biological Chemistry, pp. 17741-17751. (10.1074/jbc.M301602200)
- Ramji, D. P. and Foka, P. 2002. CCAAT/Enhancer binding proteins: structure, function and regulation. Biochemical Journal 365, pp. 561-575. (10.1042/BJ20020508)
- Mead, J. R. and Ramji, D. P. 2002. The pivotal role of lipoprotein lipase in atherosclerosis. Cardiovascular Research 55(2), pp. 261-269. (10.1016/S0008-6363(02)00405-4)
- Hughes, T. R., Tengku-Muhammad, T. S., Irvine, S. A. and Ramji, D. P. 2002. A novel role of Sp1 and Sp3 in the interferon- -mediated suppression of macrophage lipoprotein lipase gene transcription. Journal of Biological Chemistry 277(13), pp. 11097-11106. (10.1074/jbc.M106774200)
- Mead, J., Irvine, S. and Ramji, D. P. 2002. Lipoprotein lipase: structure, function, regulation, and role in disease. Journal of Molecular Medicine 80(12), pp. 753-769. (10.1007/s00109-002-0384-9)
- Kockar, F. T., Foka, P., Hughes, T. R., Kousteni, S. and Ramji, D. P. 2001. Analysis of the Xenopus laevis CCAAT-enhancer binding protein α gene promoter demonstrates species-specific differences in the mechanisms for both auto-activation and regulation by Sp1. Nucleic Acids Research 29(2), pp. 362-372. (10.1093/nar/29.2.362)
- Foka, P., Kousteni, S. and Ramji, D. P. 2001. Molecular characterization of the xenopus CCAAT-enhancer binding protein β gene promoter. Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications 285(2), pp. 430-436. (10.1006/bbrc.2001.5203)
- Tengku-Muhammad, T. S., Hughes, T. R., Ranki, H., Cryer, A. and Ramji, D. P. 2000. Differential regulation of macrophage ccaat- enhancer binding protein isoforms by lipopolysaccharide and cytokines. Cytokine 12(9), pp. 1430-1436. (10.1006/cyto.2000.0711)
- Granger, R. L., Hughes, T. R. and Ramji, D. P. 2000. Gene, stimulus and cell-type specific regulation of activator protein-1 in mesangial cells by lipopolysaccharide and cytokines. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Gene Structure and Expression 1492(1), pp. 100-107. (10.1016/S0167-4781(00)00089-0)
- Granger, R. L., Hughes, T. R. and Ramji, D. P. 2000. Stimulus- and cell-type-specific regulation of CCAAT-enhancer binding protein isoforms in glomerular mesangial cells by lipopolysaccharide and cytokines. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta - Molecular Basis of Disease 1501(2-3), pp. 171-179. (10.1016/S0925-4439(00)00016-8)
- Tengku-Muhammad, T. S., Hughes, T. R., Foka, P., Cryer, A. and Ramji, D. P. 2000. Cytokine-mediated differential regulation of macrophage activator protein-1 genes. Cytokine 12(6), pp. 720-726. (10.1006/cyto.1999.0620)
- Davies, G. E., Sabatakos, G., Cryer, A. and Ramji, D. P. 2000. The ovine CCAAT-enhancer binding protein δ gene: cloning, characterization, and species-specific autoregulation. Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications 271(2), pp. 346-352. (10.1006/bbrc.2000.2630)
- Mead, J. R., Cryer, A. and Ramji, D. P. 1999. Lipoprotein lipase, a key role in atherosclerosis?. FEBS Letters 462(1-2), pp. 1-6. (10.1016/S0014-5793(99)01495-7)
- Kousteni, S., Tura-Kockar, F. and Ramji, D. P. 1999. Sequence and expression analysis of a novel Xenopus laevis cDNA that encodes a protein similar to bacterial and chloroplast ribosomal protein L24. Gene 235(1-2), pp. 13-18. (10.1016/S0378-1119(99)00221-8)
- Tengku-Muhammad, T. S., Hughes, T., Cryer, A. and Ramji, D. P. 1999. Involvement of both the tyrosine kinase and the phosphatidylinositol-3 ' kinase signal transduction pathways in the regulation of lipoprotein lipase expression in J774.2 macrophages by cytokines and lipopolysaccharide. Cytokine 11(7), pp. 463-468. (10.1006/cyto.1998.0460)
- Tengku-Muhammad, T. S., Hughes, T. R., Cryer, A. and Ramji, D. . P. 1999. Synergism between lipopolysaccharide and interferon gamma in the regulation of lipoprotein lipase in macrophages. Cytokine 11(6), pp. 408-415. (10.1006/cyto.1998.0447)
- Sabatakos, G., Kousteni, S., Cryer, A. and Ramji, D. P. 1998. Rapid communication: Nucleotide sequence of ovine C/EBP epsilon gene. Journal of Animal Science 76(11), pp. 2953-2954.
- Kousteni, S., Kockar, F. T., Sweeney, G. E. and Ramji, D. P. 1998. Characterisation and developmental regulation of the Xenopus laevis CCAAT-enhancer binding protein β gene. Mechanisms of Development 77(2), pp. 143-148. (10.1016/S0925-4773(98)00128-2)
- Kousteni, S., Tura, F., Sweeney, G. E. and Ramji, D. P. 1997. Sequence and expression analysis of a Xenopus laevis cDNA which encodes a homologue of mammalian 14-3-3 zeta protein. Gene 190(2), pp. 279-285. (10.1016/S0378-1119(97)00013-9)
Book sections
- Chan, Y., Alotibi, R., Alahmadi, A. and Ramji, D. P. 2022. Monitoring cellularity and expression of key in atherosclerotic plaques. In: Ramji, D. ed. Atherosclerosis: Methods and Protocols., Vol. 2419. Methods in Molecular Biology Springer, pp. 497-506., (10.1007/978-1-0716-1924-7_30)
- Chan, Y., Alahmadi, A., Alotibi, R. and Ramji, D. P. 2022. Evaluation of plaque burden and in atherosclerotic plaques. In: Ramji, D. ed. Atherosclerosis: Methods and Protocols., Vol. 2419. Methods in Molecular Biology Springer, pp. 481-496., (10.1007/978-1-0716-1924-7_29)
- Chan, Y. and Ramji, D. P. 2022. Probing inflammasome activation in atherosclerosis. In: Ramji, D. ed. Atherosclerosis: Methods and Protocols., Vol. 2419. Methods in Molecular Biology New York, NY: Springer, pp. 313-331., (10.1007/978-1-0716-1924-7_20)
- Chan, Y. and Ramji, D. P. 2022. Investigation of mitochondrial bioenergetic profile and dysfunction in atherosclerosis. In: Ramji, D. ed. Atherosclerosis: Methods and Protocols., Vol. 2419. Methods in Molecular Biology New York, NY: Springer, (10.1007/978-1-0716-1924-7_19)
- Alahmadi, A. and Ramji, D. P. 2022. Monitoring modified lipoprotein uptake and macropinocytosis associated with macrophage foam cell formation. In: Ramji, D. ed. Atherosclerosis: Methods and Protocols., Vol. 2419. Methods in Molecular Biology New York, NY: Springer, pp. 247-255., (10.1007/978-1-0716-1924-7_14)
- Ramji, D. P., Chan, Y., Alahmadi, A., Alotibi, R. and Alshehri, N. 2022. Survey of approaches for investigation of atherosclerosis in vivo. In: Ramji, D. ed. Atherosclerosis: Methods and Protocols., Vol. 2419. Methods in Molecular Biology New York, NY: Springer, pp. 57-72., (10.1007/978-1-0716-1924-7_4)
- Ramji, D. P., Ismail, A., Chen, J., Alradi, F. and Al Alawi, S. 2022. Survey of in vitro model systems for Investigation of key cellular processes associated with atherosclerosis. In: Ramji, D. P. ed. Atherosclerosis: Methods and Protocols., Vol. 2419. New York, NY: Springer, pp. 39-56., (10.1007/978-1-0716-1924-7_3)
- Chan, Y. and Ramji, D. P. 2022. Key roles of inflammation in atherosclerosis: mediators involved in orchestrating the inflammatory response and its resolution in the disease along with therapeutic avenues targeting inflammation. In: Ramji, D. ed. Atherosclerosis: Methods and Protocols., Vol. 2419. Methods in Molecular Biology New York, NY: Springer, pp. 21-37., (10.1007/978-1-0716-1924-7_2)
- Chan, Y. and Ramji, D. P. 2022. Atherosclerosis: pathogenesis and key cellular processes, current and emerging therapies, key challenges, and future research directions. In: Ramji, D. ed. Atherosclerosis: Methods and Protocols., Vol. 2419. Methods in Molecular Biology New York, NY: Springer, pp. 3-19., (10.1007/978-1-0716-1924-7_1)
- Moss, J. and Ramji, D. 2017. Cytokines in Atherosclerosis. In: Foti, M. and Locati, M. eds. Cytokine Effector Functions in Tissues. Academic Press, pp. 109-118.
Books
- Zabetakis, I. et al. eds. 2022. Functional foods and their implications for health promotion. Elsevier.
- Ramji, D. P. ed. 2022. Atherosclerosis: Methods and protocols. Methods in Molecular Biology. New York: Humana Press. (10.1007/978-1-0716-1924-7)
Research
Inflammation, Atherosclerosis, Cardiovascular Disease and Regulation of Gene Expression
The overall aim of research in my laboratory is to understand how cytokines and other disease-associated factors regulate key cellular processes during inflammatory disorders with the goal of identifying new therapeutic/preventative targets/avenues. In particular, we are elucidating the pathways leading from the interaction of such factors with their receptors, through the intracellular signalling cascades, to the control of gene expression in the nucleus and the subsequent regulation of cellular processes. Research uses a combination of cell culture and mouse model systems coupled with molecular, biochemical, immunological and pharmacological approaches. Previous and current research has been funded by grants from the British Heart Foundation, Wellcome Trust, BBSRC, MRC, EU, International Governments and Industry. Our research is focused on two major areas:
Regulation of macrophage processes during atherosclerosis with focus on the actions of cytokines
Atherosclerosis and its complications, such as myocardial infarction and cerebrovascular accident, are responsible for more deaths worldwide than any other disease. Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disorder of medium and large arteries orchestrated by cytokines. Macrophages play a prominent role in the pathogenesis of this disease with their uncontrolled uptake of atherogenic lipoproteins and subsequent transformation into foam cells representing a critical early step in atherogenesis. A major focus of research in my laboratory is devoted to understanding the molecular mechanisms by which cytokines regulate key macrophage processes during atherosclerosis. Specific focus is on the actions of interferon-gamma, transforming growth factor-beta and interleukin-33.
Nutraceuticals in the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis
Current pharmaceutical therapies against atherosclerosis are associated with considerable residual risk for cardiovascular disease together with other issues such as side effects and patient-dependent efficacy. In addition, many drug discovery programs have failed to find alternatives. Nutraceuticals represent promising agents either for the prevention of atherosclerosis or treatment of the disease in conjunction with pharmaceutical agents. However, this requires an in-depth understanding of their mechanisms of actions and ultimately large clinical trials to test their efficacy. We are investigating the anti-atherogenic actions of several nutraceuticals, including dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid, gamma-linolenic acid, pinolenic acid, omega-3 fatty acids, hydroxytyrosol, catechin, resveratrol, punicalagin, phytosterols and probiotics.
Collaborations
- Prof. Foo Liew (FRS), University of Glasgow
- Prof. Thomas Decker, Max F. Perutz Laboratories, Vienna
- Prof. Shinji Takai, Osaka Medical School
- Profs. Sammy Boussiba and Inna Khozin-Goldberg, Ben-Gurion University
- Drs. Frank Flider and Riccardo LoCascio, Arcadia Biosciences
- Drs. Daryn Michael, Tom Davies and Sue Plummer, Cultech Ltd
- Dr. Rob Winwood, DSM Nutraceuticals
- Dr Jason Johnson, Bristol Heart Institute
- Prof. Jonathan Napier and Dr. Olga Sayanova, Rothamsted Research
- Dr. Nigel Pearce, GlaxoSmithKline
- Dr. Ahmed Ali, International Gums & Oils Limited
- Prof. Gavin Wilkinson, and Drs Timothy Hughes, John Martin, Tim Bowen, Eddie Wang, Ian Humphreys and Anne-Catherine Raby, School of Medicine, Cardiff
- Dr Xiaoqing Wei, School of Dentistry, Cardiff
- Prof. John Harwood and Drs Alvin Kwan and Neil Rodrigues and Irina Guschina
Group members
- Dr. Jessica Williams
- Miss Hayley Gallagher
- Mr Joe Moss
- Miss Wajdan Al-Ahmadi
- Mrs Faizah Binti Jaafar
- Mr Alex Joseph
- Mrs Victoria O’Morain
- Mrs Alaa Ismail
- Mrs Rabaa Takala
- Miss Yee-Hung Chan
- Miss Alaa Alahmadi
- Mrs Reem Alotibi
- Miss Jing Chen
- Mr Sulaiman Al Alawi
- Mr Fahad Alradi
- Mrs Faizah Albalawi
- Mrs Daniah Rifqi
Teaching
Lectures on Molecular Biology to 1st Year Dentistry Students.
Practicals on Biochemistry to 1st Year Dentistry Students.
Biography
April 2022-Present: Fellow of the Learned Society of Wales
October 2021-Present: Deputy Head, Cardiff School of Biosciences, Cardiff University
October 2020-September 2021: Deputy Head of Biomedicine Division, Cardiff School of Biosciences, Cardiff University
October 2019-September 2020: Acting Head of Biomedicine Division, Cardiff School of Biosciences, Cardiff University
August 2017-Present: Professor of Cardiovascular Science, Cardiff School of Biosciences, Cardiff University
October 2009-September 2021: Postgraduate Tutor for Biomedicine Division, Cardiff School of Biosciences, Cardiff University
August 2006-July 2017: Reader, Cardiff School of Biosciences, Cardiff University
August 2003-July 2006: Senior Lecturer, Cardiff School of Biosciences, Cardiff University
August 1992-July 2003: Lecturer, School of Molecular and Medical Biosciences, Cardiff University
Jan 1991-June 1992: Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Istituto Di Ricerche Di Biologia Molecolare P. Angeletti (IRBM), Rome. Fellowship from EU
October 1988-December 1990: Postdoctoral Research Fellow, European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Heidelberg. Fellowship from Royal Society
1988: PhD (Molecular Biology), Department of Biochemistry, University of Leeds
1984: BSc (Hons) Biochemistry, Class 2(1), Department of Biochemistry, University of Leeds
Honours and awards
- Fellow of the Learned Society of Wales
- Postdoctoral Fellowships from the Royal Society and the EU
Professional memberships
- Fellow of the Learned Society of Wales
- International Academy of Cardiology
- British Atherosclerosis Society
- International Chemical Biology Society
Committees and reviewing
- Member of the British Heart Foundation Project Grants Committee from May 2024
- Expert Evaluator for the Call 'Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Doctoral Networks in 2022 and 2023
- Reviewer of MRC Programme Grant and MRC Project Grant
- Reviewer for BHF Intermediate Basic Science Research Fellowship and BHF Project Grant
- Reviewer for Heart Research UK
- External Examiner for MSc in Translational Cardiovascular Medicine at University of Bristol (2021-2025)
- External Examiner for BSc in Bioscience at University of Limerick (2020-2024)
- Expert evaluator and panel member for Horizon 2020 (2015)
- External Examiner for BSc in Biochemistry at Kings College London (2016-2020)
- External Examiner for BSc in Biological Sciences at University of Reading (2015-2019)
- BSc in Biological Sciences at University of Huddersfield (2013-2017)
- BBSRC Pool of Experts (2009-2010)
- Panel member and Chair of Assessment Committee for the IRCSET Postdoctoral Fellowship Scheme, Ireland (2008-2009)
- External Examiner for taught MSc programmes at Sheffield Hallam University (2006-2011)
- Member of MRC Advisory Board (2004-2005)
- Scientific Executive Committee Member of the International Academy of Cardiology.
- Expert evaluator of poster/oral presentations in over 11 international conferences, including 16th Euro Fed Lipid Congress and Expo and International Conference on Advances in Pharmaceutical and Health Science.
- Member of the Editorial Board of 10 international journals, including Frontiers in Clinical Diabetes and Healthcare, American Journal of Clinical and Experimental Immunology and Immunometabolism.
- Ad hoc reviewer for over 20 funding organisations, including 14 outside the UK.
- Ad hoc reviewer of over 36 international journals.
- External examiner for over 25 PhD/MSc students, including international (Ireland, India, and Malaysia).
Supervisions
Supervised 28 PhD students to completion as primary supervisor.
Available to supervise self-funded or funded PhD students for the following project.
Molecular mechanisms underlying the anti-atherogenic actions of natural products
Atherosclerosis, the underlying cause of myocardial infarction, stroke and peripheral vascular disease, is responsible for most deaths in the western world with mortality increasing at a marked rate in developing countries. The economic burden from atherosclerosis and its complications is expected to worsen due to global increase in risk factors such as diabetes and obesity. Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disorder of large and medium arteries regulated by key cytokines. Manipulating such inflammatory response represents a promising avenue for the prevention and treatment of this disease. Many natural products and their metabolites have anti-atherogenic properties though the underlying molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. We are therefore investigating this aspect using a combination of in vitro and in vivo approaches.
This project will focus on investigation of the protective actions of a chosen natural product or its metabolites on major processes implicated in atherosclerosis in vitro in the three key cell types associated with this disease (i.e., macrophages, endothelial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells) and in vivo using the low-density lipoprotein receptor deficient mouse model system (in collaboration with Dr. Timothy Hughes, School of Medicine, Cardiff University). These mice will be fed an atherogenic western-type diet for 12 weeks and 24 weeks supplemented with vehicle or metabolites. Parameters that will be analysed will include: body weight and weight of organs; Plasma Lipid Profile; plaque morphometry, collagen deposition, and accumulation of macrophages, smooth muscle cells and T-lymphocytes (immunohistochemistry). In addition, RNA-Sequencing will be used to determine global changes in gene expression. The effects on key signalling pathways (e.g. MAP kinases) will also be analysed. The studies will provide an in-depth understanding of anti-atherogenic actions of the agent in vitro and in vivo.
Current supervision
Jing Chen
Research student
Sulaiman Amur Said Alalawi Al Alawi
Research student
Fahad Mohammed Alradi Alradi
Research student
Daniah Rifqi
Research student
Engagement
Extensive engagement activities for the British Heart Foundation (e.g. BHF Supporter’s Conference)
STEM Ambassador
Local and National BAME communities
Contact Details
Ramji@cardiff.ac.uk
+44 29208 76753
Sir Martin Evans Building, Room C/4.17, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3AX
+44 29208 76753
Sir Martin Evans Building, Room C/4.17, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3AX
Research themes
Specialisms
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Biochemistry and cell biology
- Molecular biology
- Immunology
- Clinical pharmacology and therapeutics
