AtheroTalk

We sit down with Prof. Bart van de Sluis, Professor of Molecular Genetics and Translational Biology at the University of Groningen (UMCG). His research unravels the molecular mechanisms that control lipid metabolism and endo-lysosomal cholesterol transport, key processes in cardiometabolic diseases such as fatty liver disease and atherosclerosis.

Prof. van de Sluis leads a research group dedicated to understanding how receptor trafficking and inflammation are regulated, with a focus on the NF-κB signaling pathway. Using advanced cellular and mouse models, including CRISPR/Cas approaches, his team pushes the boundaries of molecular medicine. Beyond his research, he heads the Transgenic Mouse Clinic for Aging Research (CRISPR facility).

Join us as we talk about his scientific journey, the challenges of translational research, and his vision for the future of molecular biology and cardiovascular science.

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Script-prep: Hana Bartuskova, Maria Giovanna Lupo, Sanne Maas, Tatyana Storozhenko

Interviewer: Sanne Maas

This time, we interview Prof. Michael Shapiro, President of the American Association of Preventive Cardiology and Chair-Elect of the AHA Council on Lipidology, Lipoprotein, Metabolism & Thrombosis. We delve into his academic journey and explore his predictions for the future of our field.

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Script-prep: Azin Kheirkhah, Svetlana Stoica, Tatyana Storozhenko

Interviewer: Svetlana Stoica

Tune in to this special FH Awareness Week episode of our podcast featuring Prof. Steve Humphries. In this conversation, he shares valuable insights into familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) and introduces the newly established EAS Paediatric Lipid Working Group. He highlights the importance of early detection, collaboration, and awareness to improve care and outcomes for children living with inherited lipid disorders.

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Script-prep: Hana Bartuskova, Joana Rita Chora, Laura Gaita, Azin Kheirkhah

Interviewer: Azin Kheirkhah

Rates of obesity and related metabolic disorders have risen dramatically worldwide, yet most treatment strategies still focus on individual conditions, missing the bigger picture. A new Consensus Statement from the European Atherosclerosis Society introduces a holistic, clinically actionable framework that reflects disease progression across three stages, from early metabolic changes to advanced organ damage.

In this episode, we discuss this new staging system in detail in an interview with the lead author, and we also hear from two EAS Young Fellows who worked behind the scenes, offering unique insights that go beyond what is published in the manuscript.

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Script-prep: Mariia Cherska, Azin Kheirkhah, Elena Rodriguez Sanchez

Interviewer: Azin Kheirkhah, Elena Rodriguez Sanchez

In this episode, our guest is Dr Simon Pfisterer, group leader at the University of Helsinki and Chief Scientific Officer of Moncyte Ltd. His work bridges cutting-edge research and clinical application in dyslipidaemia and cardiovascular disease. We're talking about his academic journey, his move into biotech, and his vision for the future of precision medicine in atherosclerosis.

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Script-prep: Joana Chora, Sanne Maas, Elena Rodriguez Sanchez
Interviewer: Sanne Maas

In this episode, a leading interventional cardiologist and pioneering researcher, Prof. Gemma Figtree brings a unique perspective at the intersection of clinical care, molecular science, and national health strategy. From her early academic journey to groundbreaking work, Prof. Figtree shares ideas that are as inspiring as they are impactful. Join us for a conversation that explores not only the science but also the passion, resilience, and vision at the frontlines of cardiology.

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Script-prep: Elena Rodriguez Sanchez, Tatyana Storozhenko

Interviewer: Tatyana Storozhenko

In this special AtheroTalk live episode from the EAS Congress floor, hosts Emiel van der Vorst and Azin Kheirkhah sit down with two leading experts and successful grant winners in cardiovascular research—Prof. Judith Sluimer, recipient of the prestigious Vici grant from the Dutch Research Council (NWO), and Prof. Keith Channon, honored with the British Heart Foundation (BHF) Research Excellence Award.

Together, they offer a candid look at what it really takes to secure major research funding. From early grant attempts and tough rejections to imposter syndrome and practical proposal strategies, this 20-minute conversation (plus live audience Q&A) delivers rare behind-the-scenes insights and advice for aspiring grant applicants.

In this episode, we talk with Prof. Noam Zelcer, a globally respected expert in the field of molecular regulation of lipid metabolism and cardiometabolic diseases. He shares his perspectives on the evolving field of lipid metabolism research. Besides his scientific insights, he encourages us to discuss our failures, which are “a feature of science, not a bug”. Another key message: “Define clear go/no-go milestones for your project”.

If you are interested in his work, he currently has an open position for a PhD student as also discussed during this episode.

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Script-prep: Pelin Golforoush, Emiel van der Vorst

Interviewer: Emiel van der Vorst

How do you build confidence and momentum early in your research career? In this episode, Prof. Jeffrey Kroon shares his perspective on navigating the competitive world of academic science. From applying for grants to leading innovative research, he offers practical advice on taking bold steps forward.

His key message? “Don’t hesitate - go for it!” Whether it’s your first grant application or a new research idea, Prof. Kroon encourages young scientists to be proactive and persistent.

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Script-prep: Pelin Golforoush, Azin Kheirkhah, Javier Rodríguez-Carrio, Emiel van der Vorst

Interviewer: Pelin Golforoush, Azin Kheirkhah

In this episode of AtheroTalk, let's meet Prof. Børge Nordestgaard, the founder of the Copenhagen General Population Study and the current EAS President.

Do you want to know more about his research trajectory, the mentors he met along the way, and the projects he's working on beyond the Copenhagen General Population Study? Or maybe you just want to get to know him more personally? Listen to the podcast and find out more about this amazing and inspiring man!

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Script-prep: Mariia Cherska, Azin Kheirkhah, Jan Novák

Interviewer: Jan Novák