How AMPK affects ACE2 and blood vessel health

AMPK Regulation of ACE2 in Endothelial Health and Disease

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-11038027

This study is looking at how a protein called AMPK helps keep your blood vessels healthy and how the COVID-19 virus can disrupt this process, with the goal of finding ways to support your vascular health after an infection.

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-11038027 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in regulating ACE2, a protein important for maintaining healthy blood vessels. The study focuses on how energy stress impacts AMPK activity within endothelial cells, which line blood vessels, and how this regulation is disrupted by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets for improving endothelial function and mitigating long-term effects of COVID-19. Patients may benefit from insights into how to protect their vascular health following viral infections.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have experienced COVID-19 and are facing vascular health issues or long-term effects.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been infected with COVID-19 or do not have any vascular health concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance endothelial health and reduce complications from COVID-19.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of AMPK in cellular health, suggesting that this approach may yield significant insights.

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.
Conditions adverse sequelae of coronavirus diseaseadverse sequelae of coronavirus disease 2019
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.