How Blood Flow Affects Artery Cells in Heart Disease

Shear stress Regulation of Endothelial Glycolysis via METTL3-mediated RNA m6A Modification

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-11123487

This work explores how different blood flow patterns change artery lining cells, contributing to heart and blood vessel disease.

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-11123487 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Our arteries experience different blood flow patterns, some of which can make them more prone to developing blockages. This project looks at how these 'atheroprone' flow patterns cause artery lining cells to become inflamed, multiply too much, and change their energy use. We are focusing on a specific process involving a protein called METTL3, which modifies RNA within these cells, to understand how these changes contribute to the development of atherosclerosis. By understanding these fundamental cellular changes, we hope to uncover new ways to protect our arteries.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research is relevant to patients with or at risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, as it seeks to understand the underlying causes of the condition.

Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or direct clinical participation will not find direct benefit from this basic science project.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent or treat atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease by targeting the cellular changes caused by blood flow.

How similar studies have performed: This project builds upon recent preliminary findings from the researchers that suggest a novel role for RNA modification in how artery cells respond to blood flow.

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 Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular 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.