How the ABCA1 protein moves fats and cholesterol to help make protective HDL
Mechanisms of phospholipid/cholesterol translocation by ABCA1
This project works to understand how the ABCA1 protein moves fats and cholesterol so people at risk for heart disease can eventually benefit from better HDL-based therapies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Cincinnati NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11171541 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will use computer simulations and laboratory experiments to map how ABCA1 extracts phospholipids and cholesterol from cell membranes and moves them into an external pocket. They will test a three-step model in which ABCA1 moves lipids into a tunnel, dimerizes to form a lipid receptacle, and then binds APOA1 to create nascent HDL. The team combines structural biology, molecular dynamics, and biochemical assays to observe these steps in detail. Results will clarify the molecular steps that must be targeted to boost protective HDL formation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with low HDL levels or genetic disorders affecting ABCA1 would be the most relevant group for future therapies based on this work.
Not a fit: This is basic lab and computational research, so patients should not expect immediate changes to their treatment or direct benefit from participating.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new ways to raise protective HDL function and lower cardiovascular risk.
How similar studies have performed: Previous laboratory and simulation studies support parts of the team's three-step model, but past attempts to target ABCA1 clinically have not yet produced successful therapies.
Where this research is happening
Cincinnati, United States
- University of Cincinnati — Cincinnati, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Segrest, Jere P — University of Cincinnati
- Study coordinator: Segrest, Jere P
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.