Canada Research Chair at Brock studies “protein rust” and tests an antibody to protect against cardiovascular disease and stroke
Newman Sze’s Canada Research Chair at Brock University obtained about $368,000 from the Heart & Stroke Foundation to validate molecules behind protein deterioration in blood vessels (“protein rust”) and to test a lab‑made antibody, isoDGR‑mAb, designed to boost immune clearance of damaged proteins and potentially protect arteries and the blood–brain barrier.
Sze (Health Sciences), with co‑lead Ping Liang, will use the Heart & Stroke funding to pinpoint the chemical reactions causing protein damage in vasculature and to advance preclinical tests of isoDGR‑mAb. The team will assess whether the antibody preserves artery integrity, reduces plaque inflammation and protects the blood–brain barrier. Sze has filed patent protection for the antibody technology and is working with biopharma and international collaborators to develop the approach toward clinical applications.
Read the original story · Brock University — https://brocku.ca/brock-news/2026/11/canada-research-chair-investigating-how-protein-rust-may-lead-to-heart-disease-and-stroke/