Improving plaque stability in atherosclerosis
Harnessing molecular breaks on macrophage efferocytosis in atherosclerosis
['FUNDING_P01'] · COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-11116894
This project looks for new ways to help the body clear out harmful cells in blood vessels, which could make plaques more stable and reduce heart disease risk.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_P01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11116894 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Even with current treatments, many people with atherosclerosis still face a risk of heart problems. This work focuses on special immune cells called macrophages that are supposed to clean up damaged cells in blood vessel plaques. When these macrophages don't work well, plaques can become unstable and lead to serious events. We are exploring a specific gene, Pdcd6ip, that appears to act like a brake on this cleanup process. By understanding and potentially adjusting this brake, we hope to find new ways to stabilize plaques and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant to patients living with or at high risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, including those with residual risk despite lipid-lowering therapies.
Not a fit: Patients without atherosclerosis or related cardiovascular conditions would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes by making atherosclerotic plaques more stable.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary findings from genome-wide screens and studies in animal models suggest that targeting the Pdcd6ip gene can improve plaque stability.
Where this research is happening
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
- COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES — NEW YORK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ZHANG, HANRUI — COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES
- Study coordinator: ZHANG, HANRUI
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.