Understanding Cell Signals in Aortic Aneurysms
Official title: Role of cyclic nucleotide signaling in aortic aneurysm
Funded at University of Rochester · NIH-11110382 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This research explores how specific cell signals contribute to the weakening of blood vessel walls in aortic aneurysms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $534,495 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL162259-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11110382 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to understand the underlying biology of aortic aneurysms, particularly abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA).
✕Less likely to help
Patients not affected by aortic aneurysms would not directly benefit from this specific research.
What this research studies
Aortic aneurysms cause the aorta, the body's main artery, to bulge and weaken, which can be very dangerous. This project focuses on the smooth muscle cells within the aorta, which are crucial for maintaining the vessel's strength and flexibility. When these cells do not function properly, it can lead to the development of an aneurysm. We are examining how certain internal cell signals, called cyclic nucleotides (cAMP and cGMP), and the enzymes that break them down (PDEs), affect these muscle cells. By gaining a deeper understanding of these signals, we hope to uncover new strategies to prevent or treat aortic aneurysms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new medications that target specific cell signals to strengthen the aorta and prevent dangerous aneurysm rupture.
How similar studies have gone: While some prior evidence suggests the importance of these cell signals, this work focuses on specific enzymes (PDE1A and PDE1C) to better understand their precise roles in aortic aneurysms.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Rochester
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yan, Chen — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Yan, Chen
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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.