Understanding how endothelial cells behave in atherosclerotic plaque erosion
Official title: Endothelial Cell Respiration in Atherosclerotic Plaque Erosion
Funded at Albert Einstein College of Medicine · NIH-11001988 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain cells in your blood vessels, called endothelial cells, help with the breakdown of plaque that can lead to heart problems, and it hopes to find new ways to prevent or treat these issues for patients like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $391,900 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL163192-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11001988 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for coronary artery disease or those with existing atherosclerotic conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with heart disease not related to atherosclerosis or those without significant cardiovascular risk factors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of endothelial cells in the process of plaque erosion, a significant contributor to acute coronary syndromes. By focusing on the intrinsic factors of these cells, the study aims to uncover the mitochondrial mechanisms that influence cell survival and repair in atherosclerotic plaques. The research employs advanced techniques to visualize and analyze the behavior of endothelial cells in this context, potentially leading to new insights into heart disease. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how plaque erosion occurs and how it can be prevented or treated.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing acute coronary syndromes and improving heart health.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been significant research on plaque rupture, the specific focus on endothelial cell respiration in plaque erosion is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Bronx, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Riascos Bernal, Dario Fernando — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Riascos Bernal, Dario Fernando
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.