How Immune Cells Interact with Fats in Blood Vessels
Macrophage-Lipoprotein Interactions
This research explores how certain immune cells in our bodies break down fatty deposits that contribute to heart disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11053529 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies have immune cells called macrophages that play a role in how fatty deposits, or lipoproteins, build up in our blood vessels, leading to conditions like atherosclerosis. This project looks at a new way these macrophages might be breaking down these fatty deposits. We believe these cells create special compartments around the fats and release enzymes to digest them. Understanding this process could help us learn why cholesterol crystals form and cause inflammation in these cells.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation but aims to help individuals at risk for or living with atherosclerosis and related heart conditions.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or direct clinical intervention would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new ways to prevent or treat the buildup of fatty plaques in arteries, potentially reducing the risk of heart disease.
How similar studies have performed: This project describes a novel mechanism for how immune cells handle cholesterol, building upon previous findings about lysosomal enzymes.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Maxfield, Frederick R. — Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ
- Study coordinator: Maxfield, Frederick R.
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.