How blood cell changes contribute to heart disease
Inflammatory crosstalk between macrophages and stromal cells in clonal hematopoiesis
This project explores how specific changes in blood cells, which become more common with age, contribute to heart disease by causing inflammation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11116878 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are looking into how genetic changes in blood stem cells, a condition called clonal hematopoiesis, lead to inflammation that can worsen heart disease. Our work suggests that when these altered blood cells release inflammatory signals, they can harm other cells in the arteries, making plaques unstable and increasing the risk of heart attacks or strokes. We are using advanced techniques to observe how these different cell types communicate and influence each other within the artery walls. This will help us understand the precise steps that lead to plaque destabilization in patients with clonal hematopoiesis.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant for individuals with clonal hematopoiesis, especially those at risk for or living with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
Not a fit: Patients without clonal hematopoiesis or atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent or treat heart disease in people with clonal hematopoiesis by targeting specific inflammatory pathways.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work in animal models has shown that blocking inflammation can improve features of plaque stability, suggesting this approach has promise.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tall, Alan Richard — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Tall, Alan Richard
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 below.