Understanding genetic factors in heart disease
Official title: Systems Genetics of Vascular Smooth Muscle Phenotypes
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11237328 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how differences in our genes can change the behavior of certain heart cells that are important for coronary artery disease, and by understanding this better, we hope to find new ways to help treat heart disease for patients like you.
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 | December 15, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $88,305 |
| NIH project number | 3R01HL166428-03S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11237328 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a family history of coronary artery disease or those diagnosed with atherosclerosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-genetic causes of heart disease or those who do not have atherosclerosis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how genetic variations affect the behavior of vascular smooth muscle cells, which play a crucial role in coronary artery disease (CAD). By analyzing human aortic smooth muscle cells from heart transplant donors, the study aims to identify specific genetic variants that influence gene expression related to CAD. The approach combines genetic analysis with cell culture techniques to explore how these variants contribute to the development of atherosclerosis. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new therapies targeting the underlying causes of heart disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of targeted therapies for coronary artery disease, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has successfully identified genetic factors associated with coronary artery disease, suggesting that this approach has the potential for meaningful discoveries.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Civelek, Mete — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Civelek, Mete
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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.