How gene regulators shape immune cells in artery plaque
Transcriptional co-regulators and macrophage gene expression
Explores whether natural-like compounds can calm artery inflammation without causing harmful liver fat for people with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11227644 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are studying Liver X Receptors (LXRs), proteins that control genes involved in fat handling and inflammation in artery-clogging immune cells called macrophages. They compare the natural molecule desmosterol and lab-made mimics in cells, mouse models, and human plaque samples to see why some compounds activate protective genes in macrophages but not fat-producing genes in the liver. The team measures gene activity in macrophages and hepatocytes and examines how different co-regulators steer cell-specific responses. Findings will guide the design of drugs that protect arteries while avoiding liver side effects.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, arterial plaque, or those undergoing vascular procedures that allow collection of plaque samples would be the most relevant candidates for participation or future trials.
Not a fit: People without arterial plaque or those with advanced liver disease that could be worsened by LXR-targeting therapies may not benefit from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to new treatments that reduce plaque inflammation and lower heart attack or stroke risk without causing liver fat accumulation or high triglycerides.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal studies showed LXR activation can protect against disease but caused liver fat with earlier drugs, while desmosterol-based approaches have shown promising macrophage-selective effects that remain unproven in humans.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Glass, Christopher K — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Glass, Christopher K
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.