Research Focus

Dr. Butts' translational program of research include human subjects studies focused on the linking  cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer's disease in multiple areas, including immune cell subsets, the renin-angiotensin-system, vascular function, and cognitive function. Dr. Butts and her research team have a particular focus on social determinants of health and patient reported outcomes, such as symptoms and quality of life.

Areas of interest include:

• Identifying inflammatory pathways in cardiovascular disease
• Understanding mechanisms that underlie the heart-brain connection and identifying modifiable targets of intervention to modulate these pathways.
• Identifying pathophysiologic mechanisms associated with symptoms in persons with heart failure.
• Elucidating the role of oxidative stress in persons with cardiovascular disease. 
• Exploring the role of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system on brain health in persons with heart failure.
• Understanding biological aging in heart failure.

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