Investigating the role of arterial calcification in peripheral artery disease

Medial Arterial Calcification in Peripheral Artery Disease

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11021469

This study is looking at how a specific type of artery hardening called medial arterial calcification (MAC) affects people with peripheral artery disease (PAD), and it aims to find out how a certain enzyme might help us understand and treat this condition better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-11021469 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding medial arterial calcification (MAC) in patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD), particularly how it differs from traditional atherosclerosis. The study aims to explore the mechanisms behind MAC, including the role of the enzyme CD73 and its product, adenosine, in vascular health. By examining the relationship between CD73 levels and MAC, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets to improve patient outcomes. Patients may be involved in assessments that help clarify the pathogenesis of this condition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include adults diagnosed with peripheral artery disease, particularly those exhibiting symptoms of medial arterial calcification.

Not a fit: Patients with peripheral artery disease who do not have any signs of medial arterial calcification may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve vascular health and reduce complications associated with peripheral artery disease.

How similar studies have performed: While the investigation of medial arterial calcification is emerging, previous studies have shown promising results in understanding related mechanisms in vascular diseases.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, 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 2026-06-13 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.