Understanding how diabetes leads to artery plaque formation and potential treatments

Exosomes in the Pathogenesis of Diabetic Atherosclerosis & its Treatment Opportunities

NIH-funded research Veterans Affairs Med Ctr San Francisco · NIH-10951511

This study is looking at how diabetes can lead to heart problems by exploring tiny particles called exosomes that might cause inflammation and plaque buildup in the arteries, with the goal of finding new ways to help people with diabetes stay heart-healthy.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVeterans Affairs Med Ctr San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10951511 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which diabetes contributes to the development of atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by fatty plaques in the arteries. The team focuses on exosomes, small vesicles released by cells, which may play a significant role in promoting inflammation and plaque formation in diabetic patients. By studying both human and mouse models, the researchers aim to uncover how high blood sugar levels influence the production of these exosomes and their impact on cardiovascular health. The findings could lead to new therapeutic strategies to mitigate the risks associated with atherosclerosis in diabetic individuals.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with diabetes, particularly those at risk for cardiovascular diseases.

Not a fit: Patients without diabetes or those who do not have cardiovascular risk factors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases in patients with diabetes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of exosomes in various diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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.
Conditions adult onset diabetesAdult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.