Investigating how pericyte KATP channels affect small vessel disease in the brain
Official title: Pericyte KATP channel hyperactivity in cerebral small vessel disease
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10917115 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells called pericytes, which help keep blood vessels healthy, are affected by a gene mutation linked to CADASIL, a condition that can cause problems with blood flow and brain function, and it hopes to find new ways to improve treatment for patients dealing with this disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | July 16, 2023 |
| Project end | July 15, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $40,402 |
| NIH project number | 5F31HL170645-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10917115 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with CADASIL or other forms of cerebral small vessel disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cerebral small vessel disease may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of pericytes, a type of cell that supports blood vessels in the brain, in cerebral small vessel disease, particularly CADASIL. The study examines how mutations in the NOTCH3 gene affect these cells and lead to problems with blood flow and brain function. By exploring the KATP channels in pericytes, the research aims to uncover new insights into how these channels regulate blood flow and contribute to conditions like ischemic stroke and vascular dementia. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of their condition and potential new treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients suffering from cerebral small vessel disease and related conditions.
How similar studies have gone: While the role of pericytes in other vascular conditions has been studied, this specific investigation into KATP channels in pericytes is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jeffrey, Danielle a — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Jeffrey, Danielle a
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.