Investigating the role of a specific protein in aortic aneurysms
Smooth muscle cell PRDM16 and aortic aneurysm
This study is looking at how a protein called PRDM16 might influence the development of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) by affecting the cells in the aorta, with the hope of finding new treatments since current options mainly involve surgery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10885937 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the PRDM16 protein in the development of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs). Researchers will use animal models to explore how changes in PRDM16 affect smooth muscle cells in the aorta, which may lead to new insights into aneurysm formation. By identifying the mechanisms involved, the study aims to pave the way for potential drug therapies, as current treatment options are limited to surgical interventions. The research is crucial because AAAs often go unnoticed until they become life-threatening.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for abdominal aortic aneurysms, particularly those with a family history or other risk factors.
Not a fit: Patients who have already undergone surgical repair for an aortic aneurysm may not benefit directly from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new medications to treat or prevent aortic aneurysms, reducing the need for surgery.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding genetic factors in vascular diseases can lead to significant advancements in treatment, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chang, Lin — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Chang, Lin
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.