U of A researcher addresses critical health challenges in heart failure, cancer prevention and treatment

Dr. Ayman El-Kadi. Photo supplied.

Ayman El-Kadi joined the University of Alberta in 2001 and is currently the associate dean of research and graduate studies in the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. From 2013 to 2016 he helped foster ties with Qatar University, Doha, Qatar by serving as dean of their College of Pharmacy. He received his BSc in pharmacy and MSc in pharmacology from Tripoli and Benghazi University in Libya, and his PhD in pharmacology from the University of Montreal. He completed postdoctoral training in molecular toxicology at the University of Western Ontario.

El-Kadi’s research interests lie in pharmacology and molecular and environmental toxicology. We contacted him to learn more.

What is the focus of your research?

Our lab’s research centres on three key areas aimed at advancing treatment options and disease prevention. First, we investigate the role of Cytochrome P450 enzymes in abnormal heart enlargement, or cardiac hypertrophy, which can lead to heart failure. By understanding this process, we hope to develop treatments that prevent or slow heart failure, potentially lowering health-care costs and hospital visits. We are also testing new compounds to regulate these enzymes and improve heart health. 

Second, we study how environmental heavy metals interact with specific chemicals, known as aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) ligands, to alter gene activity and potentially increase the risk of mutations or cancer. Insights from this work could lead to new approaches for reducing environmental cancer risks. 

Lastly, we are searching for natural compounds that can block the AhR receptor associated with cancer, with the goal of creating safer, effective cancer therapies from natural sources. Together, these research areas aim to address critical health challenges with innovative, science-driven solutions.

Why is your research important?

Our research is dedicated to addressing critical health challenges through innovative approaches in heart failure, cancer prevention and treatment. Heart failure, often due to abnormal heart enlargement, affects millions worldwide, and by studying key enzymes involved, we aim to discover therapies that can prevent or slow the disease, ultimately improving lives and reducing health-care costs. We are also investigating the cancer risks associated with environmental heavy metals, as their interactions with certain chemicals may raise mutation and cancer risks. Understanding these effects is essential for developing better prevention and treatment strategies. Additionally, we are exploring natural substances that block cancer-related receptors to provide patients with safer, effective therapy options, addressing the limitations and side-effects of many conventional treatments.

What first drew you to this area of study?

My interest in this field was initially inspired by the prevalence of heart disease and the need for new treatments to alleviate the burden of heart failure. Alongside this, I became fascinated by how environmental factors impact human health at the molecular level. Early in my studies, I was struck by the complexity of gene-environment interactions, especially how heavy metals can unexpectedly alter gene expression and increase disease risks. I saw that understanding these interactions could lead to targeted, preventive health strategies. I was also drawn to the potential of natural compounds as safer, effective therapies, particularly in cancer treatment, where conventional therapies often come with severe side-effects. These combined interests drive my dedication to research that integrates environmental health, genetics and therapeutic development to create real-world health impacts.

What’s the No. 1 piece of advice you give your students?

The top piece of advice I give my students is to stay curious and resilient. Research can be challenging and often unpredictable, but curiosity keeps you engaged and open to discovery, while resilience helps you push through setbacks and learn from them. Science thrives on asking new questions and approaching problems from different angles, so I encourage my students to embrace a mindset of exploration and persistence. Whether in the lab or in coursework, those two qualities — curiosity and resilience — are key to meaningful progress and long-term success.

What is something your colleagues would be surprised to learn about you?

My colleagues might be surprised to learn that, before my academic career, I was a professional soccer player! The discipline, teamwork and focus from my sports background still influence my approach to research and teaching today. Also, I have a passion for collecting watches. For me, each piece has a unique story and craftsmanship, much like each research project I work on. It’s a hobby that keeps me connected to precision and detail, both of which I value in my professional life as well.