AtheroTalk

This episode of AtheroTalk features Prof. Raul Santos from Brazil, reflecting on his journey in cardiovascular medicine and his impact on the field of lipidology. The discussion covers advances in familial hypercholesterolemia, LDL lowering, and emerging therapies like Lp(a), alongside the real-world challenges of prevention across different regions. Combining scientific insight with personal perspective, it’s an engaging and thoughtful conversation with a clear message: stay curious, keep pushing forward, and “go after your dreams”.---------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Pelin GolforoushInterviewer: Pelin Golforoush

What does it take to build a career at the intersection of clinical care, research, and global collaboration? In this episode of AtheroTalk, we speak with Prof. Pablo Corral from Argentina, who brings a grounded and insightful perspective on lipid disorders, cardiovascular prevention, and the evolving role of large-scale clinical trials.From tackling familial hypercholesterolemia to addressing residual risk, he shares both the realities and possibilities of advancing care in Latin America. Along the way, he reflects on mentorship, career choices, and what truly sustains long-term motivation, captured in one simple idea: “Find something you are truly passionate about.”A thoughtful conversation for anyone navigating science, medicine, and purpose.---------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Pelin GolforoushInterviewer: Pelin Golforoush

In this episode, Prof. Rory Collins shares the personal moments that shaped his career and pulls back the curtain on UK Biobank: how it really works, the tough calls, and the surprises along the way. As more of us rely on UKB for our research, this candid conversation is a must-listen for anyone using the resource: the context, trade-offs, and behind-the-scenes details you don’t usually get.---------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Hana Bartuskova, Azin Kheirkhah, Elena Rodriguez-SanchezInterviewer: Alexandr Ceasovschih, Azin Kheirkhah

This interview features Magdalena Daccord, CEO of FH Europe Foundation, discussing key challenges and future directions in the management of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH). The conversation focuses on patient advocacy, early diagnosis, and the importance of international collaboration between clinicians, researchers, and policymakers. Special attention is given to emerging initiatives, including the Lp(a) International Task Force, and the role of patient networks in improving awareness and access to care.---------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Maria Cherska, Azin Kheirkhah, Svetlana StoicaInterviewer: Maria Cherska, Svetlana Stoica

In this episode of AtheroTalk, we are honored to host Prof. John J.P. Kastelein, one of the most influential figures in lipidology and cardiovascular prevention. With a career spanning decades of groundbreaking research and innovation, Prof. Kastelein shares his personal journey and reflects on the evolution of lipid-lowering therapy — from the early days of statins to today’s rapidly expanding pipeline of novel therapeutics. Together, we explore the milestones that have shaped modern cardiovascular prevention, the lessons learned along the way, and the exciting future of precision lipid management. This conversation offers unique insights into the intersection of science, clinical practice, and drug development, from someone who has been at the forefront of it all.---------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Fotis BarkasInterviewer: Fotis Barkas

In this special global episode of AtheroTalk, the EAS Young Fellows move beyond their traditionally Europe-focused conversations to connect with Professor Rodrigo Alonso Karlezi in Chile, bringing a Latin American perspective to cardiovascular science. The discussion explores international advances in familial hypercholesterolaemia, and the power of international collaboration, while also addressing challenges faced in Latin America such as limited resources, differences in guidelines, and the need to build sustainable research networks. Reflecting on perseverance in global science, Prof. Karlezi reminds us that “no doesn’t mean ‘no’, it means ‘not yet’.”---------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Pelin GolforoushInterviewer: Pelin Golforoush

In this episode of AtheroTalk, we discuss with Prof. Gerald F. Watts, a leading world expert in the field of Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH) and Cardio-metabolic Medicine, about his professional journey, about national strategies and policies in FH and about how can young professionals achieve a successful career.Prof. Watts shares his insights about the process of adding clinical meaning into research projects, his mentors and overcoming challenges. He also shares ways to address gaps in care, a fresh perspective on cardiometabolic prevention, methods of thinking and ideas that help researchers keep their research relevant.Tune in and don’t miss the powerful motto that Prof. Watts has followed throughout his exceptional career – “discovery comes to the prepared mind”.---------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Laura Gaita, Maria Giovanna LupoInterviewer: Laura Gaita

Our guest, Prof. Göran K. Hansson, has spent a lifetime advancing cardiovascular science while helping steward one of the world’s most prestigious scientific institutions. His work as a Professor at Karolinska Institutet and former Secretary General of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, bridges discovery, leadership, and recognition.He reflects on his clinical and academic journey and opens a window into his long service on the Nobel Committee for Physiology or Medicine.---------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Alexandr Ceasovschih, Maria Cherska Interviewer: Alexandr Ceasovschih

In this episode of AtheroTalk, we talk with Prof. Ruth Frikke-Schmidt, a clinician and cardiovascular researcher, about curiosity, purpose, and growing into a life in science. She shares insights from her work on cardiovascular disease and genetics, and offers honest reflections on mentorship, setbacks, and balancing research with clinical work. It’s an inspiring listen for students and early-career researchers, ending with a piece of advice that’s both simple and powerful: “One thing at a time.”---------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Pelin GolforoushInterviewer: Pelin Golforoush

In this AtheroTalk episode, Prof. Frederick Raal - a distinguished Professor at the University of the Witwatersrand and one of the world’s leading experts in familial hypercholesterolemia - shares insights from his clinical and research journey.He discusses balancing clinical duties with leading one of the largest HoFH cohorts globally, highlighting the importance of mentorship, curiosity, and disciplined time management.Prof. Raal explains the expanding role of PCSK9 and ANGPTL3 inhibitors, emphasizing combination therapy as essential for HoFH.He reflects also on unanswered questions regarding long-term safety of PCSK9 inhibitors, the promise and challenges of gene-editing approaches, and the urgent need to improve global access to advanced lipid-lowering therapies.---------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Fotios BarkasInterviewer: Fotios Barkas

In this episode of AtheroTalk, Prof. Ron Blankstein, a leading expert in cardiovascular imaging and prevention, discusses his professional journey, the power of coronary artery calcium scoring, innovations in cardiac CT, and the future of cardiovascular risk prediction.---------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Tatyana StorozhenkoInterviewer: Tatyana Storozhenko

In this episode of the AtheroTalk, we speak with Dr Rohan Khera from the Yale School of Medicine - a leading expert in big data and artificial intelligence, and their applications in cardiovascular medicine. Are you curious about digital phenotyping? Do you want to know which AI-powered tools are already in use or soon will be in clinical practice? Did you know that a simple ECG recording can reveal far more about the heart than just its electrophysiological properties?---------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Azin Kheirkhah, Jan NovákInterviewer: Jan Novák

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.-------------------------------------------------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.-------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Hana Bartuskova, Maria Giovanna Lupo, Sanne Maas, Tatyana StorozhenkoInterviewer: 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.---------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Azin Kheirkhah, Svetlana Stoica, Tatyana StorozhenkoInterviewer: 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.---------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Hana Bartuskova, Joana Rita Chora, Laura Gaita, Azin KheirkhahInterviewer: 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.---------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Mariia Cherska, Azin Kheirkhah, Elena Rodriguez SanchezInterviewer: 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.---------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Joana Chora, Sanne Maas, Elena Rodriguez SanchezInterviewer: 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.---------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Elena Rodriguez Sanchez, Tatyana StorozhenkoInterviewer: 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, Emiel van der VorstInterviewer: 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.------------------------------------------------- Script-prep: Pelin Golforoush, Azin Kheirkhah, Javier Rodríguez-Carrio, Emiel van der VorstInterviewer: 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!------------------------------------------------- Script-prep: Mariia Cherska, Azin Kheirkhah, Jan NovákInterviewer: 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."-------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Hana Bartušková, Azin Kheirkhah, Javier Rodríguez-Carrio, Tatyana Storozhenko, Emiel van der VorstInterviewer: 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.-------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Pelin Golforoush, Azin Kheirkhah, Javier Rodríguez-Carrio, Yusuf Ziya Sener, Tatyana StorozhenkoInterviewer: 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.-------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Fotios Barkas, Mariia Cherska, Azin Kheirkhah, Sanne Maas, Emiel van der VorstInterviewer: 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.-------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Hana Bartušková, Mariia Cherska, Azin Kheirkhah, Irina StarodubtsevaInterviewer: 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.-------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Elena Rodriguez Sanchez, Azin Kheirkhah, Maria Giovanna Lupo, Tatyana StorozhenkoInterviewer: 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!”-------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Elena Rodriguez-Sanchez, Fotios Barkas, Hana Bartušková, Mariia Cherska, Azin Kheirkhah, Jan Novak, Javier Rodriguez-Carrio, Tatyana StorozhenkoInterviewer: 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.-------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Hana Bartušková, Pelin Arabacilar Golforoush, Azin Kheirkhah, Svetlana StoicaInterviewer: 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.-------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Vanessa Bianconi, Mariia Cherska, Azin Kheirkhah, Maria Giovanna LupoInterviewer: 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.-------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Alexandr Ceasovschih, Azin Kheirkhah, Elena Rodriguez-Sanchez, Tatyana Storozhenko, Emiel P. C. van der VorstInterviewer: Pelin Arabacilar Golforoush

In our first episode, we’re thrilled to speak with Prof. Anne Tybjaerg-Hansen from Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Denmark. With over 40 years of experience in clinical biochemistry and molecular cardiology, she is a true expert in her field. Tune in for an insightful conversation, where Prof. Tybjaerg-Hansen concludes with a powerful message for early career scientists: “Go for it, science is fun!”-------------------------------------------------Script-prep: Fotios Barkas, Joana Rita Chora, Azin Kheirkhah, Krishnaraj Rathod, Yusuf Ziya SenerInterviewer: Antoine Rimbert