Investigating how a gut-derived compound affects blood vessel function
Official title: Role of Trimethylamine-N-oxide in endothelial dysfunction
Funded at Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr · NIH-10896250 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a substance called TMAO, which comes from certain foods and is made by gut bacteria, affects blood vessel health and could lead to heart problems, with the hope of finding new ways to help people with cardiovascular diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Station, United States) |
| Project start | August 19, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $384,375 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL148711-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10896250 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for cardiovascular diseases, particularly those with elevated levels of TMAO.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without cardiovascular disease or those not producing TMAO may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO), a compound produced by gut bacteria from certain foods, in causing problems in blood vessel function, particularly in relation to cardiovascular diseases. The study aims to understand how TMAO influences the behavior of endothelial cells, which line blood vessels, and how it may contribute to conditions like atherosclerosis. By examining the molecular mechanisms involved, the research seeks to uncover new pathways that lead to vascular injury and dysfunction. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could lead to new treatment strategies for cardiovascular diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches for preventing or treating cardiovascular diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has indicated that gut microbial metabolites play a significant role in cardiovascular health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr
College Station, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Koka, Sai Sudha — Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr
- Study coordinator: Koka, Sai Sudha
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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.