MFGE8's role in small heart blood vessel problems in diabetes
Coronary Endothelial Cell Dysfunction in Diabetes: Role of MFGE8
Researchers are looking at whether MFGE8 can help small heart blood vessels work better in people with diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11286617 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This work looks at why tiny blood vessels in the heart stop working well in people with diabetes and whether a protein called MFGE8 can help. Scientists will study MFGE8's effects on endothelial cells, capillary density, and vessel relaxation using lab-grown cells and animal models, and may analyze human tissue or blood samples. They will examine inflammation, cell death, and vessel remodeling to understand how MFGE8 might protect or repair the heart's microcirculation. The aim is to use those findings to guide new treatments that restore blood flow and reduce heart damage in people with diabetes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with diabetes who have symptoms of heart ischemia or a diagnosis of coronary microvascular disease (non-obstructive coronary disease) would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: People without diabetes or those whose heart disease is due to large blocked coronary arteries (obstructive CAD) are less likely to benefit directly from these findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that restore small coronary vessel function and lower heart disease risk in people with diabetes.
How similar studies have performed: Prior lab and animal studies indicate MFGE8 can reduce inflammation and promote blood vessel growth, but using it specifically for diabetic coronary microvascular dysfunction is a newer approach.
Where this research is happening
Gainesville, United States
- University of Florida — Gainesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Makino, Ayako — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Makino, Ayako
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.