Understanding how a protein affects blood vessel function and heart health
Official title: Critical Role of Endothelial DRP1 in regulating metabolic, microvascular, and cardiac function
Funded at Medical College of Wisconsin · NIH-10995690 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called DRP1 affects heart and blood vessel health in people with coronary artery disease, and it hopes to find out if blocking this protein can help improve blood flow and heart function, which could lead to new treatments for heart issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical College of Wisconsin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Milwaukee, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | September 29, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $53,314 |
| NIH project number | 1F31HL176057-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10995690 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with coronary artery disease or related cardiometabolic disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without cardiovascular issues or those with conditions unrelated to endothelial function may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a protein called DRP1 in the health of blood vessels and the heart, particularly in individuals with coronary artery disease. It focuses on how DRP1 influences the production of reactive oxygen species and affects blood flow and vascular function. By using a special rodent model, the study aims to determine whether blocking DRP1 can improve blood vessel function and overall cardiovascular health. Patients may benefit from insights gained about potential new treatments for heart-related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for improving heart and vascular health in patients with coronary artery disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting mitochondrial function for cardiovascular health, suggesting this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical College of Wisconsin
Milwaukee, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gutierrez Huerta, Cristhian a — Medical College of Wisconsin
- Study coordinator: Gutierrez Huerta, Cristhian a
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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.