Identifying biomarkers for aortic aneurysm using animal and computer models
Official title: Complementary animal and computational models for biomarker identification in ascending thoracic aortic aneurysm
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10862732 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for new ways to predict how an ascending thoracic aortic aneurysm might grow or cause problems, using special mouse models and patient imaging, to help doctors make better decisions for people with this serious heart condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $583,489 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL164800-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10862732 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with ascending thoracic aortic aneurysm, particularly those with genetic predispositions such as Marfan Syndrome.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of ascending thoracic aortic aneurysm or those who are not genetically predisposed may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the ascending thoracic aortic aneurysm (ATAA), a serious cardiovascular condition where the aorta is dilated and at risk of dissection or rupture. The study aims to identify new biomarkers that can predict the growth and failure of ATAA by utilizing a combination of animal models, specifically a mouse model associated with Marfan Syndrome, and advanced computational models based on real patient imaging data. By analyzing genetic, microstructural, and geometrical factors, the research seeks to develop composite biomarkers that provide better predictions for patient outcomes than current methods. This approach addresses the limitations of existing surgical guidelines, which often fail to prevent dissections in patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved methods for predicting aneurysm failure, potentially saving lives by enabling timely surgical interventions.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using animal and computational models to identify biomarkers for various conditions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights for ATAA as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wagenseil, Jessica — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Wagenseil, Jessica
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Biomarker clues from animal and computer models to predict when the ascending aorta could fail
Researchers will combine animal studies and computer models to find biological clues that help predict dangerous changes in the ascending aorta for people with aortic aneurysm.
-
Sexual differences in thoracic aortic aneurysm biology
A study to understand why men and women experience thoracic aortic aneurysms differently, with a focus on human tissue and biology.
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Using AI and 3D CT scans to predict rupture risk for thoracic aortic aneurysms
This project uses machine learning plus 3D CT scans to help identify adults with thoracic aortic aneurysms—especially smaller ones—who may be at higher risk of rupture.
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Understanding the causes and treatments for thoracic aortic aneurysm
This study is looking into how thoracic aortic aneurysms develop in people with Marfan syndrome, with the goal of finding new ways to treat this condition, and it involves testing different medications on animal models to see how they affect aortic health.
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Finding better warning signs for problems in the upper aorta (ascending aortic aneurysm)
Researchers are combining mouse experiments, computer simulations, and patient scans to find sets of markers that could warn people with ascending aortic aneurysms about the risk of rapid growth, tearing, or rupture.
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Understanding how biomechanical factors affect the growth and rupture of aortic aneurysms
This study is looking at how certain physical changes in the aorta can help us understand why some aortic aneurysms grow or tear, specifically in veterans, so we can improve how we decide when surgery is needed.
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.