Aspirin, Lp(a), and Preventing Heart Problems
Aspirin, Lp(a) and Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Events
This work explores if aspirin can help prevent heart and blood vessel problems in people with high levels of a specific fat particle called Lp(a), especially those with type 2 diabetes.
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 ID | NIH-11131256 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many people have high levels of Lp(a), a genetic factor that increases the risk of heart disease. Currently, there are no approved medicines specifically for high Lp(a). This project looks at existing data from two large health studies, ASPREE and ASCEND, to see if aspirin might be beneficial for individuals with high Lp(a), particularly older adults and those with type 2 diabetes. We want to understand if aspirin changes the risk of heart events differently in people with high Lp(a) compared to those with lower levels.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This work is relevant to adults, especially those aged 65 and older, and individuals with type 2 diabetes who have elevated Lp(a) levels.
Not a fit: Patients with low Lp(a) levels or those for whom aspirin is not recommended due to other health conditions may not directly benefit from these findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help doctors decide if aspirin is a good preventive treatment for individuals with high Lp(a) and a higher risk of heart disease.
How similar studies have performed: This project re-examines data from large, established clinical trials (ASPREE and ASCEND) that have already provided significant insights into aspirin's effects.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tsimikas, Sotirios — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Tsimikas, Sotirios
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.