Editing a gene to reduce heart disease risk
Official title: Targeted editing of ASGR1 for cardiovascular diseases
Funded at Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-11056893 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help lower cholesterol and improve heart health by targeting a specific gene, and it could be especially helpful for people with high cholesterol or triglyceride levels.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project start | March 15, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $636,773 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL169976-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11056893 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with high cholesterol or triglyceride levels who are at risk for cardiovascular diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have normal cholesterol levels and are not at risk for cardiovascular diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new therapy to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases by targeting a specific gene called ASGR1. The approach involves using engineered viral-like particles to deliver a base editing technique that can modify this gene. By studying this method in preclinical models, the researchers aim to create a one-time treatment that could significantly improve lipid metabolism and cardiovascular health. Patients with high cholesterol or triglyceride levels may find this research particularly relevant.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a groundbreaking treatment that significantly lowers cholesterol levels and reduces cardiovascular disease risk for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar pathways for cholesterol management, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Indiana University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Han, Renzhi — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Han, Renzhi
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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.