Fibroblast growth factor 1 helps prevent high cholesterol and artery disease
Official title: Fibroblast growth factor 1 prevents hyperlipidemia and atherosclerosis
Funded at University of Louisville · NIH-10984962 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a special version of a protein called FGF1 to see if it can help lower cholesterol and prevent plaque buildup in arteries, which could lead to a safer treatment option for people dealing with heart issues, diabetes, or fatty liver disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Louisville NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Louisville, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2021 |
| Project end | November 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $479,176 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL160927-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10984962 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with high cholesterol, atherosclerosis, or metabolic syndrome, particularly those who have not responded well to traditional therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have issues with cholesterol or atherosclerosis, or those who are not experiencing metabolic syndrome, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of a modified form of fibroblast growth factor 1 (FGF1) to prevent high cholesterol and atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of plaque in arteries. The study focuses on a specific engineered version of FGF1 that has reduced tumor growth risk while maintaining its beneficial effects on metabolism and fat tissue. By using animal models, the researchers aim to understand how this treatment can improve metabolic health and potentially reverse conditions like diabetes and fatty liver disease. Patients may benefit from a new, safer treatment option that targets the underlying causes of cardiovascular disease without the side effects associated with traditional cholesterol-lowering medications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a safer and more effective treatment for high cholesterol and atherosclerosis, improving cardiovascular health for many patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using modified growth factors for metabolic conditions, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Louisville
Louisville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tan, Yi — University of Louisville
- Study coordinator: Tan, Yi
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Fibroblast Growth Factor 1 to Reduce High Lipids and Plaque in Adults with Diabetes
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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.