CLCA1 protein blocking inflammation in abdominal aortic aneurysms
Role of CLCA1 as a MIF decoy inhibitor in abdominal aortic aneurysms
Researchers are looking at whether a protein called CLCA1 can block harmful inflammation driven by MIF in people with abdominal aortic aneurysms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11300262 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This work examines how the protein CLCA1 binds to the inflammatory molecule MIF and whether that interaction protects the aortic wall. The team uses cultured vascular cells and animal models to see if CLCA1 can act as a decoy and reduce immune-driven damage in the aorta. They measure changes in vessel structure, immune cell behavior, and inflammatory signals that relate to aneurysm growth. Results could identify a new biological target for therapies to slow or prevent aneurysm progression.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People diagnosed with an abdominal aortic aneurysm or considered at high risk for AAA would be the most relevant group for future trials.
Not a fit: People without aortic disease, or those who already had their aneurysm surgically repaired, are unlikely to benefit directly from this laboratory-focused work in the short term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could point to new treatments that reduce inflammation and slow or prevent growth of abdominal aortic aneurysms.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research supports that MIF drives artery inflammation and aneurysm formation, but using CLCA1 as a decoy inhibitor is a novel approach that has not yet been tested in patients.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Brigham and Women's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Libby, Peter — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Libby, Peter
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.