Olive oil is also a rich source of potent antioxidants called polyphenols, which may help slow the progression of atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries because of cholesterol and inflammatory cell accumulation) by decreasing the susceptibility of bad cholesterol to oxidative damage and stress.

CNN: How heart-healthy is olive oil?

At least 18 companies are now pursuing macular degeneration treatments, including stem-cell treatments, anti-inflammatory medicines and implants that slowly release protective proteins to stave off cell damage.

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As simply one example of many, the Broad Foundation invests in advancing innovative scientific and medical research in the areas of human genomics, stem cell research and inflammatory bowel disease.

FORBES: Connect

Sure enough they were able to prove that stopping oxidation also halted the production of VCAM-1, a vascular cell adhesion molecule, that helped set off the inflammatory process.

FORBES: Magazine Article