W. Keith Jones

W. Keith Jones, PhD, is a Professor of Molecular Pharmacology and Neuroscience at Loyola University Chicago’s Stritch School of Medicine. He holds dual roles as Director of the Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutics Graduate Program and Director of Pharmacovigilance Programs. His research focuses on cardiovascular disease mechanisms, microRNA regulation in gene networks, and stem cell-based therapies. He is particularly noted for investigating miRNA pathways in cardioprotection, exosome-mediated biomarkers, and the role of gut microbiota in adipokine signaling.

Dr. Jones has pioneered studies on how high-fat diets modulate cardiac protection through NF-κB-dependent autophagy and apoptosis pathways. His lab also explores therapeutic applications of miRNAs and exosomes in heart repair post-myocardial infarction. Additionally, he developed an online pharmacovigilance certification program, emphasizing global healthcare education.

His publications span cardiovascular pharmacology, stem cell biology, and translational medicine. Key areas include miRNA biomarkers for pulmonary embolism, TRPV2 channel roles in cardiac function, and HAX-1’s protective effects in ischemic injury. His work bridges molecular mechanisms with clinical applications, such as probenecid as a non-injurious inotrope and Wnt11-modified stem cells for ischemic repair.

Dr. Jones oversees numerous collaborative projects, including the Cardiac Translational Research and Education (CTRE) initiative. His labs focus on advancing RNA therapeutics, exosome engineering, and pharmacovigilance systems to improve cardiovascular outcomes and global healthcare standards.