Understanding how gene networks affect smooth muscle cells and heart disease risk
Official title: Gene regulatory networks controlling smooth muscle phenotype and vasculardisease risk
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-11135521 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain cells in your blood vessels change and might contribute to heart problems, like coronary artery disease, so that we can better understand how your genes affect your risk for these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $620,526 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL171045-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11135521 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a family history of coronary artery disease or those diagnosed with vascular diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no genetic predisposition to vascular diseases or those without any cardiovascular risk factors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of smooth muscle cells in the development of vascular diseases, particularly coronary artery disease. By analyzing genetic data and cell behavior, the study aims to identify how these cells transition into different states that may increase disease risk. The researchers focus on specific genes and regulatory networks that influence these transitions, using advanced techniques like single-cell analysis to gain insights into the underlying mechanisms. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how their genetic makeup influences their risk for vascular diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating vascular diseases by targeting specific genetic pathways.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding genetic factors in cardiovascular diseases, making this approach promising yet still innovative.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Quertermous, Thomas — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Quertermous, Thomas
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.