Investigating how Bmal1 affects cholesterol metabolism in immune cells
Official title: Bmal1, a master regulator of Macrophage cholesterol metabolism
Funded at NYU Long Island School of Medicine · NIH-11052658 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called Bmal1 affects cholesterol levels in immune cells, which could help us understand why some people develop heart problems like atherosclerosis, and the findings might lead to better ways to manage cholesterol and prevent these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | NYU Long Island School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Mineola, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $480,446 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL169313-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11052658 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals at risk for atherosclerosis or those with metabolic disorders affecting cholesterol levels.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with established atherosclerosis who are not interested in experimental approaches may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of Bmal1, a key regulator of circadian rhythms, in cholesterol metabolism within macrophages, a type of immune cell. The study aims to understand how deficiencies in Bmal1 can lead to increased atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the buildup of fats and cholesterol in arteries. By using various mouse models, the researchers will analyze how Bmal1 influences the uptake and efflux of cholesterol and its impact on overall cardiovascular health. Patients may benefit from insights gained about cholesterol management and atherosclerosis prevention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating atherosclerosis and related cardiovascular diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown conflicting results regarding the role of Bmal1 in atherosclerosis, making this research both relevant and necessary to clarify its effects.
Where this research is happening
-
NYU Long Island School of Medicine
Mineola, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pan, Xiaoyue — NYU Long Island School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Pan, Xiaoyue
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.