How chemical tags on RNA affect artery plaque and cholesterol
RNA binding proteins in atherosclerosis
Testing whether changing chemical tags on RNA can lower cholesterol and help people with or at risk for artery plaque.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11252531 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are studying tiny chemical marks on RNA called m6A that change how genes behave and may influence cholesterol and plaque buildup. They will use genetic tools and vector-delivered changes in laboratory models to see whether altering these RNA marks changes blood cholesterol and LDL uptake. The team will also examine how these RNA modifications in myeloid (immune) cells affect inflammation and lesion behavior inside arteries. Together, this work aims to reveal whether targeting RNA chemistry could point to new treatment strategies for atherosclerosis.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with high LDL cholesterol, diagnosed atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, or strong risk factors for artery plaque would be the most relevant group.
Not a fit: People without cholesterol problems or artery disease, or those needing immediate procedures like stents, are unlikely to see direct benefit in the near term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new ways to lower LDL cholesterol or reduce artery plaque by targeting RNA modifications.
How similar studies have performed: This is an emerging area with promising laboratory findings about m6A in other diseases but few established therapies yet for atherosclerosis.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sallam, Tamer — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Sallam, Tamer
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.