A vaccine to prevent cardiovascular disease using nanotechnology
Official title: Nanotechnology-based cardiovascular vaccines
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-10990250 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new vaccine that could help prevent heart disease by training your immune system to fight inflammation and cholesterol problems, making it easier for people to manage their heart health without relying on daily medications.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $698,017 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HL175766-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10990250 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for cardiovascular disease, particularly those with a history of atherosclerosis or related conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are already diagnosed with advanced cardiovascular disease or those who do not have risk factors for CVD may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel vaccine designed to prevent cardiovascular disease (CVD) by targeting specific proteins involved in inflammation and cholesterol metabolism. The approach utilizes plant virus-like particles to deliver these proteins to the immune system, potentially activating a protective immune response. By focusing on the S100A9 protein, which plays a role in atherosclerosis, the vaccine aims to provide a long-term solution to managing CVD without the need for lifelong medication. This could improve patient compliance and reduce the side effects associated with current treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a groundbreaking vaccine that significantly reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and its associated complications.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using vaccines for cardiovascular disease is innovative, similar immunotherapeutic strategies have shown promise in other areas, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Steinmetz, Nicole Franziska — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Steinmetz, Nicole Franziska
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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.