ClC-6 protein and blood pressure control

The Role of CIC-6 in Vascular Control of Blood Pressure

NIH-funded research University of South Florida · NIH-11158786

Researchers are looking at whether the ClC-6 protein in blood vessel muscle cells helps control blood pressure in adults.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of South Florida NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tampa, United States)
Project IDNIH-11158786 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This project explores how a protein called ClC-6, found in the Golgi of vascular smooth muscle cells, might affect calcium handling and vessel contraction. Scientists will use cell-based experiments, advanced calcium imaging, and electrical measurements to study ClC-6 channel properties and its interaction with a Golgi calcium pump. Animal models will be used to see how loss or changes in ClC-6 influence blood vessel function and blood pressure. The work connects genetic findings about CLCN6 to basic mechanisms that could underlie hypertension and stroke risk.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Adults with high blood pressure or a family history of hypertension would be most relevant to this line of research.

Not a fit: People under 21 or those whose blood pressure problems are caused by non-vascular issues are unlikely to benefit directly from this basic science work.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new targets for drugs or treatments to better control high blood pressure and lower stroke risk.

How similar studies have performed: Large genetic studies have linked CLCN6 to blood pressure and stroke risk, but functional studies of ClC-6 in blood vessels are largely new and this work is exploring previously untested mechanisms.

Where this research is happening

Tampa, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.