How a newly found enzyme in immune cells affects atherosclerosis
Contribution of novel lysoplasmalogenases enzymes in regulating macrophage immunometabolic responses in cardiovascular disease
['FUNDING_R01'] · YALE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11311931
This work looks at whether a newly discovered enzyme in artery immune cells changes inflammation and cholesterol handling in people with atherosclerosis.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | YALE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11311931 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
You would hear how researchers are studying an enzyme called TMEM86a and the signals that control it to understand how immune cells in artery plaques handle fats and inflammation. The team will examine human atherosclerotic tissue and use lab-grown immune cells and animal models to change TMEM86a levels and watch effects on cholesterol removal, inflammatory signals, and cell stress. Those lab and tissue studies aim to show whether changing this enzyme could alter plaque behavior and healing in people with artery disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease or those undergoing vascular procedures who can donate artery plaque or blood samples would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: People without atherosclerosis or those seeking immediate treatment changes are unlikely to see direct benefit from this basic research project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could point to new ways to reduce artery plaque inflammation and improve cholesterol clearance, possibly leading to new treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies showed that miR-33 and LXR influence cholesterol and fat metabolism, but targeting TMEM86a in plaques is a newer idea that has not yet been tested in patients.
Where this research is happening
NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES
- YALE UNIVERSITY — NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: FERNANDEZ HERNANDO, CARLOS — YALE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: FERNANDEZ HERNANDO, CARLOS
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.