A new way to prevent artery narrowing after heart procedures
Development of a multi-modal targeted nanotherapeutic to prevent restenosis in an atherosclerotic environment
This project is creating tiny, targeted particles to help arteries heal and stay open after treatments for blockages.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11132651 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
When arteries are treated for blockages, they sometimes narrow again, a problem called restenosis. Current treatments like drug-eluting stents can have side effects, so we need better options. This project is developing a new kind of treatment using very small particles, called nanoparticles, that can deliver medicine directly to the injured artery. These nanoparticles are designed to stick only to the damaged areas and release a healing substance called nitric oxide, which helps the artery stay healthy and prevents it from narrowing again.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients who have undergone procedures to treat severe atherosclerosis and are at risk for arterial re-narrowing (restenosis) might eventually benefit from this type of therapy.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have arterial injury or are not at risk for restenosis after vascular interventions would not directly benefit from this specific treatment approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this new nanotherapy could offer a safer and more effective way to prevent arteries from re-narrowing after procedures, reducing complications and improving long-term outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have performed: The research builds upon previous work by the involved laboratories that demonstrated the biocompatibility of a similar targeted nanofiber.
Where this research is happening
Charlottesville, United States
- University of Virginia — Charlottesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tsihlis, Nick Dimitrios — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Tsihlis, Nick Dimitrios
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.