Dr. Pownall’s studies encompass multiple aspects of lipid metabolism, particularly HDL structure, properties and function in the context of obesity-linked diabetes and atherogenesis. His research goals are as follows:

• To determine if Streptococcal serum opacity factor (SOF) can enhance cholesterol disposal and reverse atherosclerosis
• To obtain a high resolution X-ray structure of SOF for the identification of active sites and design of SOF analogs
• To compare the energy storage potential of central and femoral gluteal depots, as they relate to obesity-linked diabetes
• To assess the effects of acetate, as an alcohol metabolite and in the food supply, on HDL levels and the onset of pancreatitis