How a protein affects the growth of lymphatic vessels in heart disease

Regulation of Lymphangiogenesis by Thrombospondin 1

NIH-funded research University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr · NIH-10761700

This study is looking at how a protein called thrombospondin-1 affects the growth of lymphatic vessels in arteries with atherosclerosis, which could help improve cholesterol removal and reduce heart problems for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Memphis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10761700 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of thrombospondin-1 (TSP1) in the formation of lymphatic vessels within arteries affected by atherosclerosis, a condition that leads to significant cardiovascular issues. The study aims to understand how TSP1 influences lymphangiogenesis, which is crucial for removing cholesterol and inflammatory cells from atherosclerotic lesions. By examining the effects of TSP1 on lymphatic endothelial cells, the research seeks to uncover potential therapeutic targets that could improve cholesterol transport and reduce atherosclerosis progression. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how to enhance lymphatic function in cardiovascular disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease or those at high risk for developing this condition.

Not a fit: Patients without atherosclerosis or those with other unrelated cardiovascular conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve lymphatic function and reduce the severity of atherosclerosis, potentially lowering cardiovascular disease risk.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting lymphatic function can influence atherosclerosis, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Memphis, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Diseaseatherosclerotic diseaseatherosclerotic vascular disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.