How a protein called progranulin affects blood vessel function and blood pressure
Official title: Molecular mechanisms of progranulin as a regulator of endothelial biology and blood pressure control
Funded at University of South Alabama · NIH-11181638 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called progranulin helps keep blood vessels healthy and how not having enough of it might lead to high blood pressure, with the hope of finding new ways to treat hypertension and improve heart health for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Alabama NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Mobile, United States) |
| Project start | September 3, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $427,477 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL169202-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11181638 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing hypertension or related cardiovascular issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have hypertension or related cardiovascular conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of progranulin, an anti-inflammatory protein, in regulating the function of endothelial cells, which line blood vessels, and its impact on blood pressure. The study aims to understand how a deficiency in progranulin can lead to vascular dysfunction and hypertension, a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. By exploring the mechanisms through which progranulin influences blood vessel health, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets for restoring endothelial function and managing blood pressure. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for hypertension and related cardiovascular conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve blood vessel function and lower blood pressure in patients with hypertension.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of endothelial function in hypertension, suggesting that this approach could lead to meaningful advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
University of South Alabama
Mobile, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bruder, Thiago — University of South Alabama
- Study coordinator: Bruder, Thiago
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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.