Understanding how elastin loss affects heart and blood vessel health

Epigenetic-mediated Notch pathway activation promotes elastin aortopathy

NIH-funded research Yale University · NIH-11013367

This study is looking at supravalvular aortic stenosis (SVAS), a heart condition caused by too much growth of smooth muscle in the arteries, and it aims to understand how a specific signaling pathway is involved when a protein called elastin is missing, with hopes of finding new ways to help people with SVAS.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionYale University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Haven, United States)
Project IDNIH-11013367 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates supravalvular aortic stenosis (SVAS), a condition that leads to heart and blood vessel problems due to excessive growth of smooth muscle cells in the arteries. The study focuses on the role of the Notch signaling pathway in this process, particularly how it is activated when elastin, a key protein in blood vessels, is deficient. By using animal models, the researchers aim to uncover the molecular mechanisms that contribute to this condition and explore potential therapeutic targets to prevent or reduce the severity of SVAS.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with supravalvular aortic stenosis or those with Williams Beuren Syndrome.

Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of SVAS or related cardiovascular conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent heart failure and improve outcomes for patients with SVAS.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of the Notch pathway in cardiovascular diseases, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

New Haven, 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 Arterial Obstructive DiseasesArterial Obstructive DisorderArterial Occlusive DiseasesArterial Occlusive DisorderBeuren syndrome
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.