How microRNAs affect the heart and blood vessels in cocaine users
Official title: microRNA Regulation of The Cocaine Effects on the Cardiovascular System
Funded at Miami VA Health Care System · NIH-10722345 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how cocaine affects the heart and blood vessels, especially by exploring tiny molecules called microRNAs that might help explain the risks of heart problems for people who use cocaine, with the hope of finding new ways to protect their heart health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Miami VA Health Care System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Miami, United States) |
| Project start | October 1, 2020 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| NIH project number | 5I01BX004870-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10722345 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have a history of cocaine use and are experiencing cardiovascular issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use cocaine or have no cardiovascular concerns may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of cocaine on the cardiovascular system, particularly focusing on how microRNAs may regulate the harmful effects associated with cocaine use. By analyzing tissue samples from mice treated with cocaine, the study aims to uncover specific molecular pathways that contribute to cardiovascular issues such as hypertension and atherosclerosis. The approach involves advanced techniques like RNA sequencing to identify changes in microRNA and mRNA levels, which could lead to a better understanding of the cardiovascular risks posed by cocaine. The ultimate goal is to find potential therapeutic targets that could mitigate these risks for individuals affected by cocaine use.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that protect the heart and blood vessels of individuals who use cocaine.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on microRNA regulation in the context of cocaine's cardiovascular effects is novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding drug-related cardiovascular risks.
Where this research is happening
-
Miami VA Health Care System
Miami, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dong, Chunming — Miami VA Health Care System
- Study coordinator: Dong, Chunming
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.