We found lipoxygenase in both the blood vessels and immune cells of visceral fat, says Dr. Dobrian. We determined that different forms of the lipoxygenase enzymes are preferentially expressed in vascular cells and we are now trying to understand the role of the enzyme as a possible link between vascular and fat inflammation. Dr. Dobrian and the research team anticipate that these studies will translate well into treatments for patients with diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

"It is very exciting that our team has identified damaging forms of lipoxygenases in only the visceral fat of these obese patients," Dr. Nadler says. "This indicates the potential to develop new medications to target particular forms of lipoxygenases and reduce inflammation in the fat to help prevent the diabetes and heart-related complications of obesity."

Ultimately, these findings could lead to a better understanding of the link between large waistlines and major diseases afflicting the U.S. population. These results may also allow scientists to develop new drugs to target the particular lipoxygenase pathway as a means to treat diabetes and cardiovascular complications.

These findings come at a critical time, too.  According to a new analysis by UnitedHealth Group ™s Center for Health Reform and Modernization, more than 50 percent of Americans could have diabetes or pre-diabetes by 2020 at a cost of $3.35 trillion over the next decade if current trends continue.

About EVMS:

EVMS was founded by the community in 1973 to improve health through teaching, discovering and caring. The collaborative culture at EVMS draws like-minded students and faculty from all over the country, encourages a multidisciplinary approach to healthcare and emphasizes translational research. In just 36 years, the school has grown from 24 students to an economic footprint exceeding $700 million annually in the region of southeastern Virginia known as Hampton Roads. Learn more at www.evms.