Investigating cell death mechanisms in aortic degeneration
Pro-inflammatory Pyroptotic Cell Death in Aortic Degeneration
This study is looking into how damaged DNA in certain heart cells can lead to serious problems with the aorta, and it hopes to find new ways to help prevent these issues, which could lead to better treatments for patients with aortic aneurysms and dissections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10846699 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the causes of ascending thoracic aortic aneurysms and dissections, which are life-threatening conditions often requiring emergency surgery. The study aims to explore how damaged DNA in aortic smooth muscle cells triggers a specific type of cell death known as pyroptosis, which may contribute to the progression of these diseases. By examining the molecular pathways involved, the researchers hope to identify new pharmacological strategies that could prevent the worsening of aortic degeneration. Patients may benefit from potential new treatments developed from this research.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for ascending thoracic aortic aneurysms and dissections, including those with genetic predispositions or other cardiovascular conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with aortic diseases not related to smooth muscle cell dysfunction or those who are not at risk for aortic degeneration may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new medications that prevent the progression of life-threatening aortic diseases.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of targeting pyroptosis in aortic degeneration is novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding cell death mechanisms in other cardiovascular conditions.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shen, Ying H — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Shen, Ying H
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.