Gut microbe-derived diet metabolite and immunomodulatory responses in atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory condition of the arterial wall and considered to be the most common underlying cause of the cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Several studies support a role for the gut microbiota and dietary consumption of phosphatidylcholine in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Production of trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) by the gut microbiota via metabolism of dietary phosphatidylcholine has been associated with the development and progression of atherosclerosis in humans and mice. However, the exact mechanisms by which it induces inflammation in humans is largely unknown. This project is aimed to investigate whether and how TMAO modulates function of vessel cells and immune cells in the context of atherosclerosis in humans.