Understanding how a protein called VEGFR3 affects lymphatic vessels
VEGFR Signaling Controls Lymphatic Junctions
This research aims to understand how a specific protein, VEGFR3, works in lymphatic vessels to help us find new ways to treat congenital lymphedema.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11118863 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Congenital lymphedema is a condition where inherited gene changes cause swelling in the limbs, often leading to disfigurement and infections. One common cause is a change in the VEGFR3 gene, which leads to Milroy's disease, but we don't fully understand how this gene affects lymphatic vessels. Our team is using a special mouse model where we can study the VEGFR3 gene specifically in lymphatic vessels. We've found that losing VEGFR3 affects how these vessels remodel their connections, which are crucial for fluid drainage. By understanding these basic functions, we hope to uncover why Milroy's disease develops and pave the way for new treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is most relevant to patients with congenital lymphedema, particularly those with Milroy's disease caused by VEGFR3 gene mutations.
Not a fit: Patients without lymphatic conditions or those not directly affected by VEGFR3-related lymphedema may not directly benefit from this specific basic research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new drug therapies for congenital lymphedema, including Milroy's disease.
How similar studies have performed: While VEGFR3's role in lymphatic vessel formation is known, this research explores its physiological functions, which are largely unknown, making this a novel approach to understanding Milroy's disease.
Where this research is happening
Tampa, United States
- University of South Florida — Tampa, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Scallan, Joshua Paul — University of South Florida
- Study coordinator: Scallan, Joshua Paul
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.