Dr. Oki O'Connor: New Drugs Targeting Dangerous Cholesterol

Talking Biotech with Dr. Kevin Folta

Heart attack and stroke are leading causes of death worldwide. Current treatments are aimed at prevention-- using various medications to control the health of the circulatory system. This week's podcast speaks with Dr. Oki O'Connor, Co-CEO of Underdog Pharmaceuticals. Dr. O'Connor discusses the cellular basis of atherosclerosis, and how modified cholesterol play a central role in its development. We then discuss the ability of a cyclical carbohydrate called cyclodextrin to sequester cholesterol, and how this company has used computer modeling to modify cyclodextrins to limit and potentially reverse cardiovascular disease. There are also potential ramifications in Alzheimer's Disease prevention and treatment.