Investigating calcium signaling in blood vessel muscle cells
Official title: Novel Calcium Signaling Nanodomains in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11115573 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how calcium signals in blood vessel cells can influence blood pressure, with the hope of finding new ways to help people manage high blood pressure.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $533,752 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL167208-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11115573 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are experiencing elevated blood pressure or hypertension.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have issues with blood pressure regulation or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how calcium signaling in vascular smooth muscle cells affects blood pressure regulation. By studying specific ion channels and their roles in constricting and dilating blood vessels, the researchers aim to uncover new mechanisms that could lead to innovative treatments for hypertension. The approach involves using genetically modified mice to observe the effects of these signaling pathways on blood pressure. This could provide insights into how to better manage high blood pressure in patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic targets for lowering blood pressure in individuals with hypertension.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting calcium signaling pathways for hypertension treatment, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sonkusare, Swapnil K. — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Sonkusare, Swapnil K.
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.