Understanding how new blood vessels form in the body

Novel mechanisms of vasculogenesis

NIH-funded research University of South Florida · NIH-10857146

This study is looking at how new blood vessels form and how certain cells can help heal damaged ones, using zebrafish to learn more about this process, with the goal of finding better treatments for conditions like atherosclerosis and high blood pressure.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of South Florida NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tampa, United States)
Project IDNIH-10857146 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind the formation of new blood vessels, particularly focusing on a process called vasculogenesis. It aims to identify how new endothelial cells can be incorporated into damaged blood vessels to promote healing and regeneration. Using zebrafish as a model organism, the study explores a newly discovered population of vascular progenitor cells that may play a crucial role in this process. By understanding these mechanisms, the research hopes to develop new strategies for treating vascular diseases such as atherosclerosis and hypertension.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from vascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, hypertension, or diabetes.

Not a fit: Patients with non-vascular related conditions or those who do not have any vascular dysfunction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that enhance vascular repair and regeneration in patients with cardiovascular diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding vascular development, but this specific approach using zebrafish and the identified progenitor cells is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Tampa, 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 diseaseatherosclerotic vascular diseasediabetesDiabetes Mellitus
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.