Stopping the cell process that creates calcium deposits in arteries
Targeting the Caveolae-Dependent Mechanism of Calcifying Extracellular Vesicle Formation
['FUNDING_R01'] · FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY · NIH-11228384
This research is trying to stop tiny membrane structures in artery cells from making calcium‑filled particles that harden arteries, especially in people with chronic kidney disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MIAMI, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11228384 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective, researchers will follow how small membrane pits called caveolae in artery muscle cells give rise to calcium‑carrying vesicles that start arterial hardening. They will watch these vesicles form and mature using lab models and advanced imaging, and they will test whether disrupting caveolae or a partner protein (EGFR) changes vesicle mineral content. The team will manipulate proteins involved and measure how mineral buildup progresses in three‑dimensional cell systems. Findings will guide whether blocking this pathway could become a target for new treatments to prevent or slow vascular calcification.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with chronic kidney disease or other conditions who have evidence of arterial (vascular) calcification would be the most relevant candidates for future trials based on this work.
Not a fit: People without arterial calcification or with unrelated causes of heart disease are unlikely to benefit directly from these specific findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new treatments that prevent or slow the artery hardening that raises heart risk in people with vascular calcification.
How similar studies have performed: Laboratory studies have already linked caveolin‑1 to calcifying vesicle formation, but translating that insight into therapies is new and unproven.
Where this research is happening
MIAMI, UNITED STATES
- FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY — MIAMI, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HUTCHESON, JOSHUA D — FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: HUTCHESON, JOSHUA D
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.