Tiny calcium deposits in artery plaque
Microcalcifications in Atherosclerotic Plaque
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · CITY COLLEGE OF NEW YORK · NIH-11168768
This work looks at how tiny calcium spots inside artery plaques might make plaques more likely to break and cause heart attacks in people with atherosclerosis.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | CITY COLLEGE OF NEW YORK (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11168768 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers will examine human artery plaque using high-resolution 3D imaging and detailed maps of calcium spots to see how those tiny deposits change the plaque's structure. They will combine laboratory measurements of tissue strength with computer models that simulate mechanical stresses on the fibrous cap. Some work will use plaque samples obtained during clinical procedures and collaborate with hospitals to link imaging and tissue data. The goal is to better understand which plaque features raise the risk of cap rupture.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are people with known atherosclerosis or coronary artery disease, especially those undergoing vascular imaging or procedures where plaque samples can be collected.
Not a fit: People without arterial plaque or those whose plaques are already uniformly and heavily calcified are unlikely to see direct benefit from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could help doctors better identify dangerous plaques and reduce heart attacks by guiding prevention or treatment decisions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have suggested microcalcifications can increase local stress and contribute to rupture, but combining 3D mapping with mechanics-based prediction is still a newer approach.
Where this research is happening
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
- CITY COLLEGE OF NEW YORK — NEW YORK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CARDOSO, LUIS — CITY COLLEGE OF NEW YORK
- Study coordinator: CARDOSO, LUIS
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.