Creating a targeted treatment for abdominal aortic aneurysms using nanofibers
Development of an Intravenously Delivered Nanofiber to Target MMP-2 in Aortic Aneurysms
This study is exploring a new way to treat abdominal aortic aneurysms using tiny fibers that can be delivered through an IV, which are designed to target a specific enzyme in the aneurysm tissue to help stop it from growing and possibly even shrink it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11017734 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new treatment for abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) by using specially designed nanofibers that can be delivered intravenously. These nanofibers are engineered to specifically target and bind to MMP-2, an enzyme that is overexpressed in aneurysmal tissue. By targeting this enzyme, the treatment aims to prevent the growth of AAAs and potentially reverse their progression. The research involves optimizing the nanofiber structure and testing its effectiveness in binding to the aneurysmal tissue.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with abdominal aortic aneurysms, particularly those with small to large aneurysms exhibiting elevated MMP-2 levels.
Not a fit: Patients without abdominal aortic aneurysms or those with other unrelated vascular conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a novel treatment that significantly reduces the risk of AAA enlargement and related complications.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been promising preclinical studies on various therapeutic approaches for AAAs, the specific use of MMP-2-targeting nanofibers represents a novel approach that has not been extensively tested in clinical settings.
Where this research is happening
Charlottesville, United States
- University of Virginia — Charlottesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ledford, Benjamin — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Ledford, Benjamin
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.