How a protein affects blood vessel growth and metabolism in diabetes
Official title: Mitochondrial dynamics protein Drp1 regulation of endothelial metabolism, ROS, and ischemic vascular disease
Funded at Augusta University · NIH-11103156 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called Drp1 affects the way blood vessel cells use energy, especially in people with diabetes who have trouble with blood flow, to find new ways to help improve healing and blood vessel growth.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Augusta University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Augusta, United States) |
| Project start | June 5, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $392,997 |
| NIH project number | 5P01HL160557-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11103156 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with diabetic peripheral arterial disease who experience impaired blood flow and healing.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without diabetes or those who do not have vascular issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a protein called Drp1 in regulating the metabolism of endothelial cells, which are crucial for blood vessel formation. It focuses on how reactive oxygen species (ROS) signaling influences glycolysis in these cells, particularly in the context of diabetic peripheral arterial disease (PAD). The study aims to understand how Drp1's modifications can promote or impair the growth of new blood vessels, which is essential for healing in diabetic patients. By exploring these mechanisms, the research seeks to uncover potential therapeutic targets for improving vascular health in individuals with diabetes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance blood vessel growth and improve healing in diabetic patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of ROS in vascular health, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
Augusta University
Augusta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ushio-Fukai, Masuko — Augusta University
- Study coordinator: Ushio-Fukai, Masuko
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.