Understanding how immune cells help stabilize plaques in heart disease
Macrophage Metabolic Pathways and Cellular Crosstalk in Atherosclerosis Regression
This work explores how certain immune cells in our bodies can help stabilize dangerous plaques in arteries, which could lead to new ways to prevent heart attacks and strokes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11116886 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
When plaques form in arteries, they can become unstable and lead to serious heart problems. Our bodies have immune cells called macrophages that usually help clear away damaged cells and reduce inflammation, which can make plaques more stable. This project looks at how these macrophages change their metabolism and communicate with other cells to strengthen the protective cap over plaques, especially when cholesterol levels are lowered. We aim to uncover the specific steps in this process that help plaques become less dangerous.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work is relevant for individuals with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, particularly those at risk for unstable plaques.
Not a fit: Patients without atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that encourage plaque stabilization, reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes for patients with atherosclerosis.
How similar studies have performed: Prior data from this lab and others, including published and preliminary findings, support the core hypotheses of this approach.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tabas, Ira a — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Tabas, Ira a
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 below.