Guillaume Pare

Biography

Associate Member Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences   Health Sciences Centre McMaster University Associate Member Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences   Health Sciences Centre McMaster University

Research Interest

My main research focus is Genetic and Molecular Epidemiology, whereby I aim to identify genetic determinants of complex disease such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease and other types of chronic disease. Genetic and molecular markers of disease are expected to lead to better understanding, prediction, and ultimately prevention of diseases. I currently have four projects: Stroke Genetics Stroke is the third leading cause of death in Canada and a major source of long-term disability. Risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking and abnormal heart rhythm are known to increase chances of getting a stroke. However, in many individuals who develop stroke, particularly young people, we do not find the reason. Stroke is therefore believed to develop through a combination of known risk factors (e.g. high blood pressure) and genetic factors, that make it more likely that a person will have stroke. It is known that genes contribute to the risk of stroke, since stroke occurs commonly in some families. However, very few ‘genes’ that cause stroke have been identified. Understanding the genetic basis of stroke will help provide answers to these important clinical questions. Lipoprotein(a) Genetics