Exploring a new way to treat atherosclerosis using targeted immunotherapy.
Official title: Unraveling the cell divergent roles of Glucocorticoid-Induced TNF-R Related Protein (GITR): A new opportunity to treat atherosclerosis using targeted immunotherapy
Funded at Mayo Clinic Rochester · NIH-11044603 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called GITR affects the buildup of plaque in arteries, which can lead to heart problems, and aims to find new treatments that could help reduce inflammation and improve health for people with atherosclerosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $709,869 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HL171097-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11044603 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with atherosclerosis or those at high risk for developing cardiovascular disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-atherosclerotic cardiovascular conditions or those without significant inflammatory responses may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a specific immune checkpoint protein, GITR, in the development of atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the buildup of plaques in arteries. By understanding how GITR functions in immune cells, particularly macrophages, the research aims to develop targeted immunotherapy strategies that could alter the progression of atherosclerosis. The approach involves analyzing immune responses in atherosclerotic plaques to identify potential therapeutic targets. Patients may benefit from new treatment options that specifically address the inflammatory processes involved in their condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative immunotherapy treatments that significantly improve outcomes for patients with atherosclerosis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting immune checkpoints for treating various inflammatory diseases, suggesting potential success for this novel approach in atherosclerosis.
Where this research is happening
-
Mayo Clinic Rochester
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lutgens, Esther — Mayo Clinic Rochester
- Study coordinator: Lutgens, Esther
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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.