How FAK affects cholesterol levels in foam cells
FAK regulation of cholesterol influx and efflux in foam cells
This study is looking at how a protein called FAK affects cholesterol levels in foam cells, which are important in heart disease, to find new ways to help people with cardiovascular issues manage their cholesterol better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10857269 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) in regulating cholesterol levels within foam cells, which are a key component of atherosclerosis. The study aims to understand how FAK influences cholesterol uptake and release in macrophages, potentially leading to new treatment options for atherosclerosis. By exploring the interactions between FAK and specific proteins involved in cholesterol metabolism, the research seeks to identify novel therapeutic targets that could improve outcomes for patients with cardiovascular diseases. If successful, this research could pave the way for innovative therapies that address the limitations of current lipid-lowering treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with atherosclerosis or those at high risk for cardiovascular diseases due to cholesterol-related issues.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have atherosclerosis or related cardiovascular conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that effectively reduce cholesterol accumulation in patients with atherosclerosis, potentially lowering cardiovascular disease risk.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting lipid metabolism in foam cells, but this specific approach focusing on FAK regulation is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lim, Steve — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Lim, Steve
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.