Identifying genes that affect heart disease risk and plaque stability
Official title: Identification of smooth muscle cell genes causal in atherosclerotic plaque stability and cardiovascular disease risk
Funded at Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-10904934 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes in smooth muscle cells might help keep heart plaque stable or increase the risk of heart disease, using mice and human data to find out which genes are important for heart health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | August 10, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $647,099 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL169766-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10904934 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of cardiovascular disease or those at high risk for developing heart disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without cardiovascular disease risk factors or those who do not have a genetic predisposition to heart disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific genes in smooth muscle cells that may contribute to the stability of atherosclerotic plaques and the risk of cardiovascular disease. By using advanced techniques such as single cell profiling and lineage tracing in mouse models, the study aims to uncover how these genes influence the transition of smooth muscle cells into different states that can either protect against or promote disease. The research will also utilize extensive human genetic resources to analyze data from a large cohort, aiming to identify causal genes linked to heart disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and potential therapies for reducing cardiovascular disease risk and improving plaque stability.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in identifying genetic factors related to cardiovascular disease, suggesting that this approach has the potential for meaningful discoveries.
Where this research is happening
-
Columbia University Health Sciences
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Reilly, Muredach P — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Reilly, Muredach P
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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.