Understanding how a protein called EphA2 affects plaque in blood vessels
EphA2 regulation of atherosclerotic smooth muscle phenotype
This project aims to understand how a specific protein, EphA2, influences the stability of plaques that build up in blood vessels, which can lead to heart disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Louisiana State Univ Hsc Shreveport NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Shreveport, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11096058 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our blood vessels can develop plaques that make them stiff and narrow, a condition called atherosclerosis. This project looks at a protein called EphA2, which is found in these plaques and plays a role in how they form and change. We want to learn if EphA2 makes plaques more likely to break apart and cause problems, or if it helps them become more stable. By understanding how EphA2 works, we hope to find new ways to keep plaques from becoming dangerous.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but focuses on understanding the biological mechanisms relevant to individuals with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention would not receive benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new targets for medications that help stabilize plaques in blood vessels, potentially preventing heart attacks and strokes.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of EphA2 in cancer is known, its specific and complex role in atherosclerotic plaque stability, particularly the distinction between ligand-dependent and independent signaling, is a novel area of focus.
Where this research is happening
Shreveport, United States
- Louisiana State Univ Hsc Shreveport — Shreveport, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Orr, Anthony Wayne — Louisiana State Univ Hsc Shreveport
- Study coordinator: Orr, Anthony Wayne
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.