Understanding how mechanical changes affect aortic aneurysms
Official title: Mechano-epigenetic disruption in aortic aneurysm
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11000333 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain cells in the aorta respond to changes in pressure and how problems with this sensing might lead to thoracic aortic aneurysms, with the hope of finding new ways to treat or prevent this serious condition for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $598,009 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL166425-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11000333 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with thoracic aortic aneurysms or those at high risk for developing this condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with aortic aneurysms caused by non-mechanical factors or those who do not have a thoracic aortic aneurysm may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of smooth muscle cell mechanosensing in the development of thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAA). It aims to understand how disruptions in the ability of these cells to sense mechanical changes in the aorta contribute to the disease. By exploring the molecular and epigenetic pathways involved, the study seeks to identify potential new therapeutic targets for TAA. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved treatments or preventive strategies for this serious condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that prevent the progression of aortic aneurysms and reduce the risk of life-threatening complications.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the mechanisms of aortic aneurysms, but this specific approach focusing on mechanosensing is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gomez, Delphine — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Gomez, Delphine
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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.