Understanding how certain immune cells contribute to plaque buildup in arteries
Official title: Regulation of Foamy Macrophage Differentiation and Survival in Atherosclerosis
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-11004382 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special type of immune cell called foamy macrophages affects the buildup of plaque in arteries, which can lead to heart problems, and it hopes to find new ways to prevent or treat these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $475,613 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL166843-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11004382 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 elevated cholesterol levels or a family history of cardiovascular disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no history of cardiovascular issues or those who do not have elevated cholesterol levels may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of foamy macrophages, a type of immune cell, in the development of atherosclerosis, a condition that leads to plaque formation in arteries. By analyzing gene expression and using advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing and CRISPR screening, the study aims to uncover how these cells contribute to cholesterol accumulation and plaque progression. The findings could help identify new therapeutic targets to prevent or treat cardiovascular diseases associated with atherosclerosis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce plaque buildup in arteries, potentially lowering the risk of heart disease and stroke.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in targeting immune cell functions to manage atherosclerosis, indicating that this approach has potential for meaningful advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Williams, Jesse Warren — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Williams, Jesse Warren
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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.