ABOUT ME

My research program focuses on the roles of food components on growth, development, as well as in prevention of diseases such as diabetes, and coronary heart disease. We are investigating the anti-platelet factors isolated from fruits and vegetables. Platelet-vessel wall interaction is an important process in the development of atherosclerosis and pathological thrombotic events. The new pharmacological agents derived from these sources may be useful to develop as effective cardiovascular functional foods. My discovery Fruitflow™ is scientifically-proven to inhibit platelet hyperactivity, a known cause of heart attack, stroke and venous thrombosis. Fruitflow™ became the first product in Europe to obtain an approved positive health claim under European Food Safety Authority regulations. I have several international patents on the cardio-protective factors isolated from tomatoes and kiwifruits.

My group is also working on the effects of maternal nutrients, and environmental factors on early placentation process which is an important factor for pregnancy outcome. Understanding the mechanisms responsible for human placental trophoblasts’ cellular growth, invasion, function and metabolism is crucial to prevent pregnancy related disorders.