This episode explores the 2025 Focused Update of the 2019 ESC/EAS Guidelines for the Management of Dyslipidaemias, highlighting key changes in cardiovascular risk assessment, LDL-C targets, Lp(a) interpretation, and lipid-lowering strategies. Listeners gain practical insights into how these updates impact everyday clinical decision-making and the future of dyslipidaemia management.
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Script-prep: Fotios Barkas, Maria Cherska
Interviewer: Fotios Barkas, Maria Cherska
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.
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.
Script-prep: Pelin Golforoush and 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
How can you find inspiration and stay motivated in the early stages of your career? According to Prof. Christoph Binder, building a strong foundation is key. He shares a lot of practical advice in this insightful conversation. Don’t worry if things don’t go exactly as you thought - Prof. Binder reminds us: “In general, I think most good projects do not work out as planned. This is what actually makes science exciting."
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Script-prep: Hana Bartušková, Azin Kheirkhah, Javier Rodríguez-Carrio, Tatyana Storozhenko, Emiel van der Vorst
Interviewer: Tatyana Storozhenko, Emiel van der Vorst
In this episode of AtheroTalk, Professor Jeanine Roeters van Lennep, Head of the Lipid Clinic at Erasmus Medical Center, joins us to share her insights into cardiovascular prevention and familial hypercholesterolemia. She talks about her journey into atherosclerosis research, her leadership roles, and how she balances research with clinical work. We also explore the critical need for diversity in research and the evolving role of technology and social media in academia.
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Script-prep: Pelin Golforoush, Azin Kheirkhah, Javier Rodríguez-Carrio, Yusuf Ziya Sener, Tatyana Storozhenko
Interviewer: Yusuf Ziya Sener
This episode is a special one! We sit down for an inspiring conversation with Dr Mate Kiss, winner of the Young Investigator Award in Basic Science for 2023, as he guides us through his groundbreaking research on Cell-autonomous regulation of complement C3 by factor H limits macrophage efferocytosis and exacerbates atherosclerosis, published in Immunity (http://doi.org/10.1016/j.immuni.2023.06.026).
Dr Kiss shares his journey as an early-career scientist, key insights from his award-winning work, and the challenges he overcame along the way. We also delve into his latest research on the intriguing connection between sleep and atherosclerosis.
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Script-prep: Fotios Barkas, Mariia Cherska, Azin Kheirkhah, Sanne Maas, Emiel van der Vorst
Interviewer: Florentina Porsch
In this episode, we sit down with Prof. Florian Kronenberg, a leading expert in genetic epidemiology, to explore the latest breakthroughs in Lp(a) research.
As a key contributor to the EAS Consensus Statement on Lp(a), Prof. Kronenberg shares how these guidelines are shaping clinical practice, debunks common misconceptions - including confusion around Lp(a) thresholds - and highlights the biggest unanswered questions in the field.
We discuss upcoming significant events in the Lp(a) area, such as the Lp(a) International Task Force and the 1st Global Lp(a) Summit, which brings together KOLs, patients, and policymakers to advocate for real change.
In the end, we talk with our guest about his involvement in the Atherosclerosis Journal as Deputy Editor.
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Script-prep: Hana Bartušková, Mariia Cherska, Azin Kheirkhah, Irina Starodubtseva
Interviewer: Azin Kheirkhah
What does it take to lead at a prestigious medical institution while driving groundbreaking research? See every step of your career and research as an opportunity to evolve and learn! Join us for an insightful discussion with Prof. Dale Abel, a renowned expert in cardiometabolic research and Chair of Medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, on leadership, international mobility, and his vision for the future of cardiometabolic disease management.
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Script-prep: Elena Rodriguez Sanchez, Azin Kheirkhah, Maria Giovanna Lupo, Tatyana Storozhenko
Interviewer: Elena Rodriguez-Sanchez
Prepare to be inspired! In this episode, we sit down with Prof. Paul Ridker for an insightful conversation brimming with invaluable advice for young scientists. From tackling personal questions to exploring groundbreaking frontiers in cardiovascular disease (CVD) research, this episode has it all. Tune in and don’t miss Prof. Ridker’s powerful advice: "Try to find out what you’re actually really good at and find a problem that excites you!”
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Script-prep: Elena Rodriguez-Sanchez, Fotios Barkas, Hana Bartušková, Mariia Cherska, Azin Kheirkhah, Jan Novak, Javier Rodriguez-Carrio, Tatyana Storozhenko
Interviewer: Azin Kheirkhah
Welcome to episode 4! We had the pleasure of speaking with Prof. Alexander Bartelt from Ludwig-Maximilians-University in Munich. A leading expert on cellular stress in metabolic syndrome, Prof. Bartelt exemplifies how dedication, passion for science, and a touch of creativity can lead to remarkable success. His secret? Daily yoga and a deep love for his work.
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Script-prep: Hana Bartušková, Pelin Arabacilar Golforoush, Azin Kheirkhah, Svetlana Stoica
Interviewer: Maria Giovanna Lupo
In episode 3 of AtheroTalk, we spoke with Prof. Nicola Ferri about his inspiring academic journey. Our conversation highlighted the profound impact of mentors in shaping a researcher’s path and how these valuable relationships often endure for years, continuing to influence and inspire.
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Script-prep: Vanessa Bianconi, Mariia Cherska, Azin Kheirkhah, Maria Giovanna Lupo
Interviewer: Azin Kheirkhah
In this conversation with Prof. Katey Rayner, a Chief Scientific Officer at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, we hear about her career journey, the challenges she’s overcome, and the valuable lessons she’s learned along the way. It might serve as an inspiration for you.
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Script-prep: Alexandr Ceasovschih, Azin Kheirkhah, Elena Rodriguez-Sanchez, Tatyana Storozhenko, Emiel P. C. van der Vorst
Interviewer: Pelin Arabacilar Golforoush