Understanding how bicuspid aortic valves affect heart tissue mechanics and cell signaling.
Official title: Cyclic stretch of bicuspid aortic valves: elucidating its implications for cell signaling and tissue mechanics.
Funded at University of Texas at Austin · NIH-11060998 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how bicuspid aortic valves affect heart tissue and cell behavior, with the hope of finding new treatments to help people with this condition and prevent heart problems like aortic stenosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $83,932 |
| NIH project number | 5F32HL167570-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11060998 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with bicuspid aortic valves or those at risk of developing aortic stenosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with normal tricuspid aortic valves or those without any heart valve disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of bicuspid aortic valves (BAV) on heart tissue and cell behavior. It aims to understand how the unique mechanical conditions of BAVs influence the shape and function of valve cells, which may lead to aortic stenosis (AS). By examining human valve tissue samples, the study will explore the relationship between cell deformation and biochemical signaling pathways involved in heart disease. The ultimate goal is to develop new pharmacological treatments to improve outcomes for patients with BAV.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that reduce the need for surgical interventions in patients with bicuspid aortic valves.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding valve mechanics and signaling pathways, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas at Austin
Austin, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: West, Toni Mcclish — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: West, Toni Mcclish
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.