Blocking Scap to lower harmful ApoB-containing lipoproteins
Targeting Scap to Lower ApoB-Containing Lipoproteins (ApoBCL) Production
Researchers are developing molecules that block a cellular protein called Scap to reduce ApoB-containing lipoproteins and lower heart disease risk for people with persistent high cholesterol or triglyceride-rich lipoproteins.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11249200 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project is creating a cholesterol-like compound that specifically binds and inhibits the Scap protein, which controls production of ApoB-containing lipoproteins in the liver. Scientists will use protein-structure studies, biochemical tests, and animal models to see how the compound changes Scap function and lipoprotein production. The team will measure blood lipids and related markers in their models to determine whether blocking Scap lowers the particles that contribute to residual heart disease risk. If the lab and animal results look promising, the work could lead to future human trials of new lipid-lowering therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with continued high levels of ApoB-containing or triglyceride-rich lipoproteins, or those with residual cardiovascular risk despite statins or PCSK9 inhibitors, would be the most likely candidates for future trials.
Not a fit: People without elevated ApoB or whose heart disease is unrelated to these lipoproteins, and patients seeking an immediate treatment benefit now, are unlikely to benefit from this preclinical work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to a new type of drug that lowers ApoB-containing lipoproteins and reduces residual risk of coronary heart disease beyond current therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Targeting Scap and the SREBP pathway is a relatively novel approach—existing drugs like statins and PCSK9 inhibitors lower LDL but do not directly target Scap, and clinical proof for Scap-targeting therapies is not yet available.
Where this research is happening
Dallas, United States
- Ut Southwestern Medical Center — Dallas, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Radhakrishnan, Arun — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Radhakrishnan, Arun
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.