Investigating how sex affects the formation of elastic fibers in blood vessels

Effects of Sex on the Elastogenesis of Vascular Elastic Fibers

NIH-funded research University of Nebraska Omaha · NIH-11035251

This study looks at how men and women’s bodies create and keep healthy elastic fibers in blood vessels, which help keep arteries flexible, and aims to find ways to improve these fibers to prevent stiffness and heart problems that can affect people differently based on their gender.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Nebraska Omaha NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Omaha, United States)
Project IDNIH-11035251 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the differences in how male and female bodies produce and maintain elastic fibers in blood vessels, which are crucial for keeping arteries flexible and healthy. It examines the processes that lead to arterial stiffness, a condition that can result in serious cardiovascular issues. By analyzing both human tissues and animal models, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that could potentially allow for the regeneration of these vital structures, especially in adults. The findings could provide insights into why certain cardiovascular diseases manifest differently in men and women.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults of both sexes who are experiencing or are at risk for cardiovascular diseases related to arterial stiffness.

Not a fit: Patients with acute cardiovascular conditions requiring immediate intervention may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating arterial stiffness and related cardiovascular diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of elastic fibers in vascular health, but this specific investigation into sex differences is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Omaha, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.