Understanding how a specific protein affects the buildup of plaques in arteries
Official title: Novel Mechanisms Underlying the Development of Atherosclerosis
Funded at Harry S. Truman Memorial VA Hospital · NIH-11098507 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called Olfactomedin 2 to see how it affects the buildup of fatty plaques in arteries, which can lead to heart problems, and it hopes to find new ways to help prevent heart attacks and strokes for people at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harry S. Truman Memorial VA Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbia, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01BX006161-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11098507 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for atherosclerosis, particularly those with a history of cardiovascular disease or related conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have cardiovascular risk factors or existing atherosclerosis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a protein called Olfactomedin 2 (Olfm2) in the development of atherosclerosis, a condition where fatty plaques build up in the arteries, leading to serious cardiovascular issues. The study focuses on how Olfm2 influences the behavior of vascular smooth muscle cells and their contribution to plaque formation. By examining both mouse models and human samples, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind Olfm2's effects on cholesterol metabolism and plaque stability, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies for preventing heart attacks and strokes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or reduce the severity of atherosclerosis, thereby lowering the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the mechanisms of atherosclerosis, but the specific role of Olfm2 is still being explored, making this a novel investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Harry S. Truman Memorial VA Hospital
Columbia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Shiyou — Harry S. Truman Memorial VA Hospital
- Study coordinator: Chen, Shiyou
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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.