Kenneth Walsh, PhD
PRIMARY APPOINTMENT
Lockhart B. McGuire Professor of Internal Medicine
Director, Hematovascular Biology Center
Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics
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RESEARCH SUMMARY
Somatic mutations accumulate within the cells of the hematopoietic system with age. This process can lead to the clonal expansion of mutant cells, creating a condition called clonal hematopoiesis or “CHIP.” Our studies have shown that clonal hematopoiesis promotes systemic inflammation, contributing to the development of atherosclerosis, heart failure, insulin resistance, and other pathologies associated with aging. Related studies have examined the loss of the Y chromosome (LOY) in the hematopoietic cells of males. This age-related condition is remarkably prevalent, and our experimental and epidemiological studies have shown that LOY is a causal risk factor for morbidity and mortality that contributes to the lifespan difference between men and women. To pursue these lines of research, we conduct mechanistic studies with genetically engineered lines of mice, and we collaborate with clinician-scientists from around the world to assess the status of clonal hematopoiesis and LOY in various patient cohorts.