How influenza infection affects blood platelets and heart attack risk
Mechanisms of platelet reprogramming during influenza infection
This study is looking at how the flu can increase the chances of having a heart attack by checking how blood platelets behave during the infection, and it's for anyone interested in understanding the link between flu and heart health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10873302 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how influenza infection can lead to an increased risk of heart attacks by examining the behavior of blood platelets during the infection. The study focuses on a specific molecular mechanism involving a receptor called RIG-I, which is believed to play a role in how platelets respond to the virus. By analyzing platelets from patients infected with influenza, the researchers aim to understand how these cells are reprogrammed and contribute to thrombosis, which can lead to acute myocardial infarction. The research will also explore the role of megakaryocytes, the precursor cells of platelets, in this process.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have recently been diagnosed with influenza and are at risk for acute myocardial infarction.
Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with influenza or those without cardiovascular risk factors may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing heart attacks in patients with influenza.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that viral infections can influence thrombotic events, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Worcester, United States
- Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester — Worcester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Koupenova, Milka — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Koupenova, Milka
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.