Investigating the role of pericoronary fat in heart disease risk using advanced imaging techniques

Pericoronary fat: MACE risk from non-contrast CT and the role of iodine perfusion in contrast CT

NIH-funded research Case Western Reserve University · NIH-11020959

This study is looking at how inflammation in the fat around your heart can impact heart disease, using special imaging technology to help find better ways to spot problems early and improve care for people at risk.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCase Western Reserve University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cleveland, United States)
Project IDNIH-11020959 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how inflammation in pericoronary adipose tissue (PCAT) affects the progression of coronary artery disease. By utilizing advanced cardiovascular CT imaging and artificial intelligence, the study aims to analyze the appearance of pericoronary fat and its relationship to major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). The researchers will explore the effects of iodine perfusion in contrast CT scans to enhance the assessment of PCAT and develop a cost-effective screening method for early detection of heart disease. This innovative approach could lead to improved patient management and outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for coronary artery disease, particularly those with factors contributing to inflammation in pericoronary fat.

Not a fit: Patients with no risk factors for coronary artery disease or those who do not undergo cardiovascular imaging may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better early detection and prediction of heart disease, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using advanced imaging techniques to assess cardiovascular risk, suggesting that this approach could yield significant 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.
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.