Investigating how copper transport affects blood vessel health and heart disease.
Role of Cu Transporter in EC Metabolism, ROS, and Atherosclerosis
This study is looking at how copper levels in your blood vessels can affect heart health, especially for people dealing with conditions like inflammation and diabetes, to find new ways to help prevent heart disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Augusta University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Augusta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11103140 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of copper transport in endothelial cells, which line blood vessels, and how disturbances in copper metabolism can lead to endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the buildup of plaque in arteries. The study focuses on the relationship between copper levels, glycolysis, and oxidative stress, particularly in the context of cardiovascular risk factors like inflammation and diabetes. By examining the function of a specific copper transporter, ATP7A, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that link copper metabolism to heart disease, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for cardiovascular diseases, particularly those with conditions like diabetes or chronic inflammation.
Not a fit: Patients with established atherosclerosis who are not responsive to changes in copper metabolism may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and treatments for preventing or managing atherosclerosis and related cardiovascular diseases.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific role of copper transport in endothelial dysfunction is less explored, related studies have shown promising results in understanding the metabolic processes involved in cardiovascular diseases.
Where this research is happening
Augusta, United States
- Augusta University — Augusta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fukai, Tohru — Augusta University
- Study coordinator: Fukai, Tohru
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 below.