Understanding how cholesterol affects brain damage after a stroke
The role of cholesterol metabolic enzyme CYP46A1 and its metabolite 24S-hydroxycholesterol in ischemic stroke.
['FUNDING_R01'] · MOREHOUSE SCHOOL OF MEDICINE · NIH-11143930
This research explores how a cholesterol-related process in the brain contributes to damage after an ischemic stroke.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MOREHOUSE SCHOOL OF MEDICINE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ATLANTA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11143930 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
We are looking into how a specific cholesterol-processing enzyme, CYP46A1, and its product, 24S-hydroxycholesterol, impact brain injury following an ischemic stroke. Our main idea is that when CYP46A1 becomes more active, it creates more 24S-hydroxycholesterol, which then makes brain damage worse by affecting certain brain cell receptors. To understand this better, we are using laboratory models of stroke and advanced techniques to observe brain cell activity and calcium levels. This work aims to uncover the exact steps involved in how this cholesterol pathway contributes to stroke-related brain injury.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation, but future clinical applications would target individuals at risk for or recovering from ischemic stroke.
Not a fit: Patients not affected by ischemic stroke would not directly benefit from this specific research direction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could identify new targets for treatments to reduce brain damage and improve recovery after an ischemic stroke.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of cholesterol in stroke is an active area of investigation, this specific focus on CYP46A1 and 24S-hydroxycholesterol in ischemic brain injury represents a novel and untested approach.
Where this research is happening
ATLANTA, UNITED STATES
- MOREHOUSE SCHOOL OF MEDICINE — ATLANTA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LENG, TIANDONG — MOREHOUSE SCHOOL OF MEDICINE
- Study coordinator: LENG, TIANDONG
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 below.
Conditions: Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease, Cancers