Developing new medicines to target a protein linked to aging and heart disease
Targeting the longevity regulator PAPP-A with small molecule inhibitors
This work aims to create new small molecule drugs that can block a protein called PAPP-A, which plays a role in aging and conditions like heart disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11124929 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Scientists know that slowing down aging can help prevent many diseases. One important pathway involves a protein called PAPP-A, which activates a growth factor linked to aging. Previous work with mice showed that reducing PAPP-A levels led to longer lives and protection from various age-related problems, including heart disease. While antibody treatments against PAPP-A have shown promise in animal models, this project focuses on designing and testing new small molecule drugs. These new drugs would be easier to use than antibodies and could offer a way to slow aging and protect against diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not yet recruiting patients, but future studies might involve adults aged 21 and older with or at risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
Not a fit: Patients not experiencing age-related pathologies or atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease would likely not benefit from this specific approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new medications that help slow the aging process and protect against age-related conditions like atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies in animal models using genetic modifications or antibody treatments to target PAPP-A have shown success in extending lifespan and protecting against age-related diseases, but small molecule inhibitors are a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nikolovska-Coleska, Zaneta — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Nikolovska-Coleska, Zaneta
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.