Investigating how a liver gene affects cholesterol levels and heart disease differently in men and women

Sex-Specific Roles of L-PK in Cholesterol Metabolism and Atherosclerosis

NIH-funded research University of Cincinnati · NIH-11000307

This study is looking at how a liver gene affects cholesterol levels and heart disease risk, especially in men and women, to find new ways to help manage cholesterol-related health issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Cincinnati NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cincinnati, United States)
Project IDNIH-11000307 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the role of a specific liver gene, liver pyruvate kinase (L-PK), in cholesterol metabolism and its impact on atherosclerosis, a leading cause of heart disease. By using a combination of genetic, molecular, and clinical data from various mouse models, the study aims to understand how variations in this gene may influence cholesterol levels and the risk of developing heart disease. The findings could lead to new therapeutic targets for managing cholesterol-related conditions, particularly focusing on differences between sexes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with high cholesterol levels or a family history of heart disease, particularly those who may benefit from sex-specific treatment approaches.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have issues related to cholesterol metabolism or atherosclerosis may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for cholesterol management and reduced risk of heart disease, particularly tailored to individual patient profiles.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding genetic influences on cholesterol metabolism, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Cincinnati, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.