Understanding how neutrophils affect blood vessel aging
Neutrophils play a pivotal role in vascular aging
This study is looking at how a type of white blood cell called neutrophils affects the health of blood vessels as we age, especially in people with obesity, to find ways to help improve heart health in older adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11039988 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, in the aging of blood vessels and how they contribute to conditions like arterial stiffness and cardiovascular diseases. By studying aged mice, both with and without obesity, the research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind vascular damage and inflammation caused by neutrophils. The approach includes examining how neutrophil elastase, a specific enzyme produced by neutrophils, influences blood vessel health and contributes to age-related changes. The findings could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for improving vascular health in older adults.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those experiencing cardiovascular issues or obesity.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger and do not have cardiovascular risk factors or obesity may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve blood vessel health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases in aging populations.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting inflammatory processes in vascular aging can lead to significant improvements in cardiovascular health, suggesting this approach may also be effective.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston University Medical Campus — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jiang, Zhen Yue — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Jiang, Zhen Yue
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.