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Research Interest
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Dr. Park’s research objective is to use scientific knowledge for the benefit of human health. To achieve this goal, our research focuses on the prevention of critical diseases, such as obesity, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and cardiovascular diseases. We use both animal and tissue culture models to compliment each other. Currently Dr. Park’s research program is divided into 4 different interest areas:
 Obesity Prevention:
Obesity, a health problem for 40-60% of the population in many countries, is now recognized as a significant risk factor for a number of diseases.
The primary research focus is on the molecular mechanisms of conjugated fatty acids which can be used with current weight control strategies to combat obesity. Further, we are investigating the influence of diet on activity in order to further elucidate the mechanism of obesity
Osteoporosis Prevention:
With the growing elderly population and the severity of osteoporosis incidence among elders, it is very important to prevent osteoporosis, particularly with dietary intervention. Our current hypothesis is that conjugated fatty acids improve bone mass with calcium supplementation, which is another important nutrient for bone preservation.
Cardiovascular Disease Prevention:
As the leading cause of death in Western society, cardiovascular diseases are also considered to be diseases which are preventable by diet and exercise interventions. Our research focuses on the mechanism of cholesterol modulation by dietary fiber, fish oil, and other bioactive food components.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Prevention:
The objective is to evaluate the consequences of dietary fatty acids on the development and/or progression of rheumatoid arthritis in an experimental arthritis animal model. The long-term goal is to contribute scientific contribution to the development of strategies that reduce the incidence and improve the therapeutic management of rheumatoid arthritis through dietary-based interventions. |
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