Targeting inflammation to prevent abdominal aortic aneurysm progression
Official title: Targeted approach to the mitigation of abdominal aortic aneurysm
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11115830 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how inflammation in certain cells affects the growth of abdominal aortic aneurysms and is exploring a protein called BRD4 to find new ways to help prevent these aneurysms from getting worse, which could lead to better treatments for people at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $638,494 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL172888-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11115830 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with abdominal aortic aneurysms or those at high risk for developing them.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have abdominal aortic aneurysms or related vascular conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how inflammation in smooth muscle cells contributes to the progression of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA). The team aims to understand the role of a specific protein, BRD4, in this process and how it can be targeted to mitigate AAA. By studying the effects of BRD4 on inflammation and degeneration in cultured cells and animal models, the researchers hope to identify new therapeutic strategies to prevent AAA from rupturing. This approach could lead to the development of effective treatments for patients at risk of AAA.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that prevent the life-threatening rupture of abdominal aortic aneurysms.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in targeting inflammation in similar vascular conditions, suggesting that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Guo, Lianwang — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Guo, Lianwang
Related research
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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.