Christopher Foote, PhD

Christopher Foote, PhD, is a cardiovascular researcher whose work focuses on the mechanisms that contribute to vascular dysfunction and arterial stiffening in cardiovascular and systemic disease. His research examines how endothelial injury and vascular smooth muscle remodeling interact to impair arterial function and cardiovascular regulation.

One area of Dr. Foote’s research investigates transglutaminase 2 (TG2)-dependent cytoskeletal signaling and its role in vascular smooth muscle stiffening and arterial remodeling. A complementary area examines endothelial glycocalyx degradation, impaired nitric oxide signaling and activation of ADAM17/TNF-α pathways as mechanisms of endothelial dysfunction. These studies explore how changes in vascular cell signaling and structure contribute to reduced arterial compliance and impaired cardiovascular function.

Dr. Foote’s research combines physiological, cellular and molecular approaches, including pressure myography, flow-mediated dilation, pulse wave velocity, biochemical enzyme assays, immunofluorescence and analysis of cytoskeletal signaling. His work has also contributed to a U.S. patent for neuraminidase inhibition as an approach to improve endothelial glycocalyx function and ameliorate cardiovascular disease. His background in cell biology and protein trafficking further informs his studies of membrane signaling, receptor processing and vascular mechanosensation.

Together, Dr. Foote’s research connects fundamental mechanisms of vascular dysfunction with the identification of potential therapeutic targets for restoring endothelial function, vascular compliance and cardiovascular health across a range of disease states.