Investigating how TLR4 signaling affects smooth muscle cell changes in atherosclerosis

Role of the TLR4 signaling in smooth muscle cell phenotypic transition

['FUNDING_R01'] · CLEVELAND CLINIC LERNER COM-CWRU · NIH-10886695

This study is looking at how certain signals in the body affect the behavior of smooth muscle cells during atherosclerosis, which can lead to heart disease, and it's specifically checking how a factor called OCT4 influences these changes in specially modified mice.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCLEVELAND CLINIC LERNER COM-CWRU (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10886695 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of TLR4 signaling in the changes that smooth muscle cells undergo during the development of atherosclerosis, a condition that can lead to heart disease. The researchers are exploring the molecular mechanisms that drive these changes, particularly how the factor OCT4 influences smooth muscle cell behavior. By studying genetically modified mice, they aim to uncover how these cells transition and what triggers their protective or harmful responses in the context of arterial plaque formation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for atherosclerosis or those with existing cardiovascular conditions.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have cardiovascular risk factors or existing atherosclerosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

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

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of cellular signaling in atherosclerosis, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

CLEVELAND, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.