Targeting a specific cellular process to treat brain blood vessel malformations
EndMT as a target to treat human brain arteriovenous malformations
This study is looking at a type of brain problem called arteriovenous malformations (bAVMs) that can cause serious issues, and it's trying to understand how certain gene changes might make these problems worse, with the hope of finding new treatments to help patients feel better and avoid risky surgeries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10871147 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates brain arteriovenous malformations (bAVMs), which are abnormal connections between arteries and veins in the brain that can lead to severe complications like bleeding. The study focuses on a cellular process called endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT), which has been found to play a significant role in the development of bAVMs. By analyzing human samples and using a mouse model, researchers aim to understand how mutations in the KRAS gene contribute to the severity of these malformations. The goal is to identify potential pharmacologic treatments that could improve patient outcomes and reduce the risks associated with current surgical options.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with brain arteriovenous malformations, particularly those with KRAS mutations.
Not a fit: Patients without brain arteriovenous malformations or those whose conditions are unrelated to endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new drug therapies for patients with brain arteriovenous malformations, reducing the need for risky surgeries.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of targeting EndMT in bAVMs is relatively novel, similar strategies in other vascular conditions have shown promising results.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kim, Eunhee — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Kim, Eunhee
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.