NIH-funded research R01 grant

How inflammation and metabolism help transform cells for blood vessel repair

Official title: Metabolism and Epigenetic Regulation are Couples in Transdifferentiation and Vascular Regeneration

Funded at Methodist Hospital Research Institute · NIH-10878319 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how certain signals in your cells can help turn one type of cell into another that helps repair blood vessels, which could lead to better ways to improve blood flow and healing in patients with circulation problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMethodist Hospital Research Institute
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project startSeptember 1, 2024
Project endAugust 31, 2028
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$605,625
NIH project number1R01HL169204-01A1
Project IDNIH-10878319 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from ischemic conditions, such as those with cardiovascular diseases or poor blood flow.

Less likely to help

Patients with non-ischemic conditions or those whose vascular health is not compromised may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates how inflammatory signaling within cells can trigger the transformation of fibroblasts into endothelial cells, which are crucial for repairing blood vessels. By understanding the role of metabolism and epigenetic changes in this process, the study aims to develop new strategies for enhancing vascular regeneration in ischemic conditions. Patients may benefit from insights into how their own cells can be reprogrammed to improve blood flow and tissue recovery. The approach involves examining the cellular mechanisms and signaling pathways that facilitate this transformation.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that enhance blood vessel repair and improve recovery from ischemic conditions.

How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in using inflammatory signaling for cell transformation, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

  • Methodist Hospital Research Institute
    Houston, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Lai, Li — Methodist Hospital Research Institute
  • Study coordinator: Lai, Li

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.