Investigating how SUMO2 affects blood vessel health and heart disease
Official title: SUMO2-p66shc axis in vascular endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-10812338 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a tiny protein called SUMO2 affects the cells that line our blood vessels and may contribute to heart problems like atherosclerosis, using specially modified mice to learn more about its impact on heart health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2020 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $404,824 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL152132-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10812338 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for cardiovascular diseases, particularly those with conditions that may lead to endothelial dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have cardiovascular risk factors or existing vascular diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of SUMO2, a small protein modifier, in causing dysfunction in the cells lining blood vessels and its contribution to heart disease, specifically atherosclerosis. The researchers will use genetically modified mice to explore how SUMO2 influences oxidative stress and endothelial function, which are critical factors in vascular health. By manipulating SUMO2 levels and studying their effects on a specific protein called p66Shc, the team aims to uncover new mechanisms that lead to vascular damage and heart disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for preventing or treating atherosclerosis and related cardiovascular diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that targeting similar molecular pathways can lead to significant advancements in understanding and treating cardiovascular diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kumar, Santosh — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Kumar, Santosh
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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.