Dr. Yasina Somani

Profile

Pursuing a Masters of Human Kinetics at the University of Windsor in Canada was driven by my interest in understanding the link between high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. I studied the blood pressure-lowering effects of isometric resistance training.

Continuing down the academic path with a PhD at Penn State University allowed me to gain greater mechanistic insight into vascular function. I learned techniques to assess vascular function in vivo using Doppler ultrasound and near infrared spectroscopy and studies nitrate-rich beetroot supplementation to restore vascular health in groups exhibiting high risk for cardiovascular disease development (postmenopausal women and peripheral artery disease patients). 

After my PhD I was awarded a postdoctoral fellowship from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research to investigate exercise preconditioning, the concept that single to short-term exercise can provide immediate cardiovascular protection. I conducted this research in both the Netherlands (Radboud UMC) and Liverpool (Liverpool John Moores University). In June 2023 I began my role as Lecturer at the University of Leeds. 

Research interests

My overall aim in research is to better understand the mechanisms of cardiovascular regulation and the effects of lifestyle interventions, including both novel exercise and nutritional strategies, to reduce age- and disease-associated increases in morbidity and mortality. In my lab we use ultrasound and near-infrared spectroscopy methods to explore vascular function and work with the Centre for Fluid Dynamics and the Department of Psychology at the University of Leeds to explore different aspects of vascular ageing across the lifespan. 

Please see below a current research study we have going on in the lab: 

A SINGLE SESSION OF EXERCISE ON VASCULAR PROTECTION

HEALTHY VOLUNTEERS NEDED FOR A STUDY LOOKING AT THE EFFECTS OF ACUTE HANDGRIP EXERCISES ON VASCULAR PROTECTION

We are looking for healthy men and women who are above the age of 55

What does this study involve?

6 laboratory visits that will take place over the course of 1 month. 

Visit 1 (1 hour): health screening to confirm your eligibility to participate, familiarization

Visits 2-6 (2.5 hours each visit): blood pressure measurement, ultrasound measurement of blood vessel function, temporary blood pressure cuff induced ischemic injury applied on the upper arm, handgrip exercises performed for up to 20 minutes in the left arm

For your time, you will receive a £50 voucher

Qualifications

• PhD in Kinesiology, Penn State University, US
• Masters in Human Kinetics, University of Windsor, Canada
• BSc in Human Kinetics, University of Guelph, Canada

Research groups and institutes

• Cardiovascular