Irvine-based AtheroNova, the biotech working on treating atherosclerotic plaque, reported this morning that it has named Dr. Mark K. Wedel as its Senior Vice President of Clinical Affairs, and Chief Medical Officer. Wedel has previously served at such companies as Santaris A/S, ISIS Pharmaceuticals, and Alliance Pharmaceuticals, among others. AtheroNova said it hired Wedel as part of a plan to transition to clinical stage operations in the coming months.