Investigating how Fli1 in immune cells affects heart fibrosis
The role of Fli1 in myeloid cells and its contribution to cardiac fibrosis
This study is looking at how a protein called Fli1 affects certain immune cells and how not having enough of it might lead to heart problems, especially for people with systemic sclerosis, and it will also test if a drug called Rapamycin can help prevent these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10865007 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of a specific protein, Fli1, in immune cells called monocytes and macrophages, and how its deficiency may lead to heart fibrosis, a common complication in heart diseases. The study involves examining the molecular mechanisms that contribute to fibrosis when Fli1 levels are low, particularly in patients with systemic sclerosis, an autoimmune disease. Researchers will use animal models and human cell cultures to understand how Fli1 influences heart cell behavior and fibrosis development, and whether a drug called Rapamycin can block these harmful effects.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults with systemic sclerosis or other autoimmune conditions that may lead to heart fibrosis.
Not a fit: Patients without autoimmune diseases or those not experiencing heart-related complications may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or reduce heart fibrosis in patients with autoimmune diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting immune cell functions can impact heart disease outcomes, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston University Medical Campus — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bujor, Andreea Monica — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Bujor, Andreea Monica
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.