Understanding how certain immune cells affect heart disease.

Molecular regulators of marginal zone B cells in atherosclerosis

NIH-funded research University of Virginia · NIH-10998154

This study is looking at how certain immune cells called marginal zone B cells help protect against heart disease, specifically atherosclerosis, and it will involve experiments with mice and some genetic tests in people to understand how these cells work.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Virginia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charlottesville, United States)
Project IDNIH-10998154 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of marginal zone B cells in atherosclerosis, a leading cause of cardiovascular disease. It aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that regulate these immune cells and their protective functions against heart disease. The study will involve experiments on genetically modified mice to observe changes in B cell behavior and how these changes impact the development of atherosclerosis. Additionally, it will explore the effects of specific genetic variations in humans that may influence these immune responses.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a genetic predisposition to atherosclerosis or those diagnosed with cardiovascular disease.

Not a fit: Patients without a history of cardiovascular disease or those not genetically predisposed to atherosclerosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating atherosclerosis and related cardiovascular diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding immune cell functions can lead to significant advancements in treating cardiovascular diseases, suggesting a promising avenue for this study.

Where this research is happening

Charlottesville, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.