|
Dr. Crowe-White investigates the therapeutic impact of bioactive food compounds and functional foods on redox and inflammatory balance as well as mechanistic and clinical outcomes in cardiometabolic disease and aging. These outcomes are investigated in both pre-clinical and clinical models.
The Crowe-White Redox Lab uses chromatography, mass spectrometry, and spectroscopy in biomarkers assessment along with various methods of vascular functionality. Below are highlights of funded studies. |
The MOXIE StudyBioactive Compounds in Watermelon Modulating Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Elders
Bioactive compounds in watermelon may improve vascular function by reducing oxidative stress and increasing nitric oxide bioavailability. In research funded by the American Heart Association, 100% watermelon juice was investigated for its potential in reducing cardiovascular risk factors using robust measures of vascular function, oxidative stress, and inflammation in post-menopausal women.
|
The SPICE StudyCultivating a Healthy Gut Microbiome and Cardiometabolic Profile
When gut microbiome populations in the colon are in symbiosis with the host, health and well-being predominate. Bacteria-derived metabolites produced in the colon elicit systems biological effects on cholesterol and glucose metabolism, inflammation, satiety, and gut barrier integrity among others. This study is funded by the McCormick Science Institute, and it is the first of its kind to elucidate the role of culinary spices along with probiotics on the interplay between a healthy gut microbiome and cardiometabolic profile.
|
Dietary Nitrate as Adjuvant Therapy for Hypertensive PregnanciesDietary nitrates, abundant in the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet, are powerful vasodilators that have been shown to improve vascular function and lower blood pressure. Nevertheless, little is known regarding nitrate’s effect during the prenatal phase or its influence on offspring born from hypertensive pregnancies. This research will investigate the effects of dietary nitrate as an adjuvant therapy with anti-hypertensive medication to treat maternal hypertension and its harmful effects on offspring. Funding for this mentored graduate research proposal was awarded to Janie C. DiNatale, MS, RD and the Crowe-White Redox Lab by the American Heart Association.
|
Dietary Nitrates and the Enterosalivary Pathway for Cardiovascular HealthSimilar to the gut microbiota, the oral cavity has a diverse array of bacteria that give rise to the nitrate-nitrite-nitric oxide (NO) enterosalivary pathway. This pathway results in systemic generation of the vasodilatory molecule NO from dietary nitrate, a bioactive compound found most commonly in green, leafy vegetables. As such, the enterosalivary pathway is vital to blood pressure regulation and overall cardiovascular health. Acknowledging that typical dietary patterns are deficient in nitrates, the RINSE study aims to optimize a common oral hygiene product for delivering nitrates and antioxidants to support the enterosalivary pathway for oral and vascular health. Funding for this mentored graduate research proposal was awarded to Katelyn E. Senkus, MS and the Crowe-White Redox Lab by the Colgate-Palmolive Company and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation.
|
