Robert Dzhanaev

Fetuin-A-based theranostics

Arteriosclerosis leading to ischemic heart disease remains the major cause of death worldwide. It is suggested by a number of studies that arterial microcalcification is one of the earliest precursors of vulnerable plaque formation that can result in acute vascular events such as myocardial infarction and stroke, thus presenting an important mortality risk factor. Fetuin-A, a phosphorylated liver glycoprotein, has been identified as a powerful circulating inhibitor of vascular and soft-tissue calcification which may improve cardiovascular outcomes. The aim of my research is to develop fetuin-A-based theranostics for intravital detection and treatment of ectopic calcifications