Our seminal research work on linking inflammatory pathways to lipid dysfunctions to the genesis and progression of vascular pathologies is globally recognized. We importantly contributed to research findings revealing aspects of lineage commitment of stem cells to differentiated mononuclear phagocytic lineage cells and their pathological migration, growth and survival inside the vessel wall. The current research in our laboratory combines biochemical, molecular and genetic approaches to study the role of pro-inflammatory molecules in the development and disruption of atherosclerotic plaques. We are also experimenting on therapeutic approaches to inhibit the development of arterial lesions in animal models. Additionally, our laboratory is involved in studies using a variety of novel interventional approaches to favorably modify inflammatory cell signaling pathways. These studies have resulted in US and international patent applications. The titles of individual research project in my laboratory are as follows: a) M-CSF isoforms in atherosclerosis; b) Role of M-CSF in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis: the next phase; c) M-CSF inhibition for prevention of atherosclerosis and restenosis; d) Mechanisms of calcification in atherosclerotic plaque; and e) Medicinal effects of Cannabis on inflammatory syndromes. In our research on medicinal effects of Cannabis in collaboration with Omics Biotechnology, Inc, we have observed that low to moderate doses of Cannabis have beneficial effects on diabetes mellitus(DM) and other conditions that ultimately precipitate in some form of CVD in South Asian Indian human populations. Recently, using the NHANES III database on Cannabis use, we have observed a similar decreased prevalence of DM in Cannabis users. These results have led us to systematically perform animal experimentation. Though many sources of genomic information exist on the World Wide Web, a source of concise cardio-neurovascular information in general and on minorities in particular does not currently exist. To provide this information, we have initiated the development of the Cardio-NeuroVascular-database (Canvas) to study the functional genome of diverse cardiovascular and neurovascular pathologies. Canvas provides information on potential candidate genes for mutational analysis, genes for custom microarray analysis, and information for additional research and clinical interests. The format of the database allows continuous updates as additional information becomes available. Canvas provides an invaluable service to those interested in obtaining information on cardiovascular and neurovascular genes and diseases to explore hypotheses that may provide new insights into specific polymorphisms and haplotype variants linked to clinical outcomes and found preferentially in minority populations.