Understanding how fat tissue around blood vessels affects aortic aneurysms

Browning of perivascular adipose tissue protects against thoracic aortic aneurysm

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11064805

This study is looking at how the fat around blood vessels might affect the development of thoracic aortic aneurysms, a serious condition, and aims to find new ways to prevent or treat it, with the help of patients who can share tissue samples or participate in related studies.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11064805 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) in the development of thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAA), a serious condition that can lead to life-threatening complications. The study aims to explore how changes in the characteristics of PVAT can influence the health of the aorta and contribute to TAA formation. By examining the mechanisms behind these changes, researchers hope to uncover new therapeutic targets for preventing or treating TAA. Patients may be involved in providing tissue samples or participating in studies that assess the relationship between their adipose tissue and aortic health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with thoracic aortic aneurysms or those at high risk for developing this condition.

Not a fit: Patients with aortic aneurysms caused by clear genetic factors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for thoracic aortic aneurysms, potentially reducing the need for surgical interventions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the role of adipose tissue in cardiovascular diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, 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.
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.