Investigating how cholesterol affects inflammation in blood vessel cells related to heart disease
Official title: Macrophage Inflammarafts and Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Atherosclerosis
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-10999459 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how cholesterol buildup in immune cells can cause inflammation and plaque in arteries, which may lead to heart disease, and it aims to find new ways to treat this condition by understanding how these cells react to cholesterol.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $703,402 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL171505-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10999459 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with atherosclerosis or those at high risk for cardiovascular diseases due to cholesterol-related issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have atherosclerosis or related cardiovascular conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the accumulation of cholesterol in macrophages, a type of immune cell, contributes to inflammation and plaque formation in arteries, which can lead to heart disease. The study employs advanced techniques to analyze single cells and their responses to cholesterol, particularly looking at specialized structures called 'inflammarafts' that play a role in signaling inflammation. By identifying key proteins involved in cholesterol metabolism and inflammation, the research aims to uncover new therapeutic targets for treating atherosclerosis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce inflammation and plaque buildup in arteries, improving heart health for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of macrophages in atherosclerosis, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Miller, Yury — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Miller, Yury
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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.