How metabolic changes affect blood vessel cell behavior
Metabolic control of vascular smooth muscle cell plasticity
This study is looking at how certain cells in your blood vessels change when they get different signals from your body, especially focusing on a protein called CDK8, to help us understand and find better ways to prevent or treat blood vessel blockages that can lead to health problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Missouri-Columbia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10989873 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) change their function in response to metabolic signals, particularly focusing on a process called dedifferentiation that contributes to vascular diseases. The study aims to understand the role of a protein called CDK8 in regulating these metabolic changes and how they lead to conditions like intimal hyperplasia, which can cause blood vessel blockages. By exploring the molecular mechanisms involved, the research seeks to uncover potential targets for therapeutic intervention. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how to prevent or treat occlusive vascular diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with occlusive vascular diseases or those at risk for such conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with non-vascular related conditions or those without any vascular disease may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for vascular diseases that improve blood flow and reduce the risk of serious complications.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding metabolic control in vascular biology, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Columbia, United States
- University of Missouri-Columbia — Columbia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cui, Taixing — University of Missouri-Columbia
- Study coordinator: Cui, Taixing
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.