Understanding how calcium buildup affects blood vessels and heart valves
Official title: Molecular and Cellular Regulation of Vascular Calcification
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-11006276 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how calcium builds up in blood vessels and heart valves, which can cause heart problems, especially in people with diabetes and kidney disease, to find new ways to prevent or treat this issue.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | January 4, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $941,922 |
| NIH project number | 5R35HL171342-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11006276 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with diabetes, chronic kidney disease, or those at risk for vascular calcification due to age or genetic factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any risk factors for vascular calcification or those with conditions unrelated to cardiovascular health may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind vascular calcification, a condition where calcium phosphate accumulates in blood vessels and heart valves, leading to serious cardiovascular issues. It focuses on understanding the genetic pathways and cellular processes that contribute to this condition, particularly in patients with diabetes and chronic kidney disease. By identifying biomarkers and signaling pathways involved in vascular calcification, the research aims to develop potential therapeutic strategies to prevent or treat this condition. The approach includes both laboratory studies and analysis of human samples to ensure relevance to patient care.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or reverse vascular calcification, improving cardiovascular health for many patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in understanding the biological mechanisms of vascular calcification, indicating that this research builds on established knowledge rather than being entirely novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Giachelli, Cecilia M — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Giachelli, Cecilia M
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.