Finding better warning signs for problems in the upper aorta (ascending aortic aneurysm)
Complementary animal and computational models for biomarker identification in ascending thoracic aortic aneurysm
Researchers are combining mouse experiments, computer simulations, and patient scans to find sets of markers that could warn people with ascending aortic aneurysms about the risk of rapid growth, tearing, or rupture.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11117068 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The team will use a genetic mouse model linked to Marfan syndrome to track how aneurysms form and change over time. They will build multiscale, multiphysics computer models of aneurysm growth and blood flow to test how tissue, genetics, and shape interact. Real patient imaging will be turned into virtual patient models so the researchers can compare simulated signals with human anatomy. By combining animal data, simulations, and patient images they aim to identify composite biomarkers that better predict dangerous aneurysm progression than diameter alone.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with ascending thoracic aortic aneurysms, including those with Marfan syndrome or similar connective-tissue risks, and patients who have available aortic imaging would be most relevant to this research.
Not a fit: People without ascending aortic aneurysms, those with only descending aortic disease, or patients who lack usable imaging or related clinical data are unlikely to benefit directly from this grant's findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help doctors identify which aneurysms are likely to tear or rupture so patients get surgery at the right time and avoid emergency events.
How similar studies have performed: Animal models and computational simulations have supported aneurysm research before, but using combined composite biomarkers from mice, physics models, and patient imaging to predict failure in ascending aortic aneurysms is relatively novel and not yet proven in patients.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wagenseil, Jessica — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Wagenseil, Jessica
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.