Understanding how gene networks affect smooth muscle cells and heart disease risk

Gene regulatory networks controlling smooth muscle phenotype and vasculardisease risk

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-11135521

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 typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-11135521 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a family history of coronary artery disease or those diagnosed with vascular diseases.

Not a fit: Patients with no genetic predisposition to vascular diseases or those without any cardiovascular risk factors may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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, 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 Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Diseaseatherosclerotic coronary disease
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.