Investigating how certain proteins contribute to blood vessel calcification
Official title: The Role of Arylsulfatase in Vascular Calcification
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11052609 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins might affect the hardening of blood vessels, which can lead to heart problems, and it involves analyzing genetic information from over 22,000 people to help find new ways to prevent and treat these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $565,741 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL162928-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11052609 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases, particularly those with genetic predispositions to vascular calcification.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of cardiovascular disease or related risk factors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of specific proteins, arylsulfatase E and sulfatase 1, in the process of vascular calcification, which is linked to serious cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks and strokes. By analyzing genetic data from over 22,000 participants and conducting laboratory experiments, the study aims to uncover how these proteins influence the calcification of blood vessels. The findings could lead to new insights into the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis and related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing vascular calcification and improving cardiovascular health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the genetic factors influencing vascular calcification, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Malhotra, Rajeev — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Malhotra, Rajeev
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.