How activated protein C helps protect blood vessel cells from damage

Endothelial Cytoprotective Signaling by Activated Protein C/Protease-activated Receptor-1

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-10988298

This study is looking at how a special protein called activated protein C can help protect the cells that line your blood vessels from damage, especially during serious conditions like sepsis, with the hope of finding new treatments for people with vascular diseases.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10988298 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how activated protein C (APC) can protect endothelial cells, which line blood vessels, from damage and dysfunction, particularly in conditions like sepsis. The study focuses on understanding the signaling pathways involved, specifically how APC interacts with a receptor called protease-activated receptor-1 (PAR1) to enhance cell survival and maintain the integrity of blood vessel barriers. By exploring these mechanisms, the research aims to identify new therapeutic targets that could improve treatment options for patients suffering from vascular diseases. Patients may benefit from potential new therapies that arise from this understanding.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with endothelial dysfunction related to vascular diseases, such as those experiencing sepsis.

Not a fit: Patients with stable vascular conditions that do not involve endothelial dysfunction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve endothelial function and reduce complications in patients with vascular diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using activated protein C for endothelial protection, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.
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.