Desmosterol’s role in B1a cells and atherosclerosis
Official title: The Role of Desmosterol in Regulating B1a Cell Functions in Atherosclerosis
Funded at Old Dominion University · NIH-11346798 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new study looks at how a cholesterol-related molecule called desmosterol affects a special type of immune cell (B1a cells) and its impact on hardening of the arteries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Old Dominion University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Norfolk, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2026 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $1,569,972 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HL185378-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11346798 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are individuals with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease or at-risk conditions who may benefit from future therapies targeting B cell metabolism.
✕Less likely to help
People without atherosclerotic disease or related risk factors may not directly benefit from this mechanistic study.
What this research studies
This project focuses on how metabolism and immune cell function intersect in atherosclerosis. Researchers will study B cell subsets, especially B1a cells, and how desmosterol alters their mitochondria and activity in atherosclerotic mice. The work will use genetic and nutritional approaches to change desmosterol levels in B cells and observe effects on plaque development. Findings could reveal metabolic targets to modulate detrimental B cell functions and reduce cardiovascular risk.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could identify metabolic pathways to safely modulate B1a cell activity and potentially slow atherosclerosis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research supports a link between B cell metabolism and atherosclerosis, but this work explores desmosterol-specific effects in B1a cells, which is still emerging.
Where this research is happening
-
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Galkina, Elena V — Old Dominion University
- Study coordinator: Galkina, Elena V
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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.