Understanding how cholesterol moves within cells
Official title: Mechanisms of nonvesicular cholesterol transport
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11138702 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins help move cholesterol inside our cells, which is important for keeping our hearts healthy, and it hopes to find new ways to help people manage cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $727,059 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL175773-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11138702 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with cardiovascular diseases or conditions related to cholesterol metabolism.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have cardiovascular issues or related metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the cellular pathways that regulate cholesterol transport within cells, focusing on the role of specific proteins known as Asters. These proteins are crucial for moving cholesterol from the plasma membrane to the endoplasmic reticulum, which is essential for maintaining cellular health. By identifying additional factors involved in this process, the research aims to uncover new therapeutic targets for treating cardiovascular diseases. Patients may benefit from insights gained about cholesterol management and its implications for heart health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for cardiovascular diseases by improving our understanding of cholesterol transport mechanisms.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding lipid transport mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tontonoz, Peter J — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Tontonoz, Peter J
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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.