Investigating how cholesterol regulates a key protein in cells
Official title: Structural and biophysical investigation of Scap regulation by cholesterol
Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-10996426 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called Scap helps control cholesterol levels in our cells, which is important for keeping our hearts healthy and preventing diseases like atherosclerosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $40,127 |
| NIH project number | 1F31HL176187-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10996426 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals at risk for atherosclerosis or cardiovascular diseases due to cholesterol imbalances.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cholesterol regulation or those who do not have cardiovascular risk factors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how cholesterol levels in cells are regulated, particularly through a protein called Scap. By examining the structural and biophysical interactions of Scap with cholesterol, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that control cholesterol synthesis and uptake in cells. This is important because imbalances in cholesterol can lead to serious health issues like atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. The study employs advanced techniques such as cryo-electron microscopy to visualize the interactions at a molecular level.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into cholesterol regulation, potentially informing treatments for cardiovascular diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding cholesterol regulation pathways, making this investigation a continuation of established scientific knowledge.
Where this research is happening
-
Ut Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Williams, Blake Christopher — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Williams, Blake Christopher
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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.