Understanding how specific cell processes affect brain aneurysms
Official title: Role of Selective Autophagy of Focal Adhesion in Intracranial Aneurysm
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-11000770 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how certain proteins in brain blood vessel cells might affect the growth of dangerous bulges called intracranial aneurysms, with the hope of finding new ways to help people who have this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | January 15, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $343,906 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS126820-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11000770 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with intracranial aneurysms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of vascular conditions unrelated to intracranial aneurysms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of selective autophagy in the formation and progression of intracranial aneurysms, which are dangerous bulges in the blood vessels of the brain. The study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind these aneurysms by focusing on how certain proteins interact within endothelial cells. By using advanced techniques, researchers will explore how these cellular processes impact the integrity of blood vessels and contribute to aneurysm development. The ultimate goal is to identify new therapeutic targets that could lead to better treatment options for patients suffering from this condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new treatments for preventing or managing intracranial aneurysms.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of targeting selective autophagy in this context is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding vascular diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rui, Yanning — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Rui, Yanning
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Understanding how brain aneurysm walls and shape change over time
This project studies how small brain aneurysms grow and whether MRI features of the aneurysm wall and its shape can predict growth so doctors can better decide when treatment is needed.
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Predicting brain aneurysm growth with advanced 4D MRI and tensor math
A research project uses 4D flow MRI and new math models to predict how brain aneurysms grow over time, helping doctors decide on safer treatments for people with UIAs.
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How aging and aged (senescent) cells may cause brain aneurysm rupture
This research tests whether removing aging 'senescent' cells can lower the chance that a brain aneurysm will burst for people with intracranial aneurysms.
-
Reprogramming blood-vessel lining cells in inherited brain aneurysms
This project aims to find out whether fixing gene-related changes in the cells that line brain arteries can lower aneurysm risk in people with a family history.
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How tiny cell structures (podosomes) may weaken brain arteries and cause aneurysms
Testing whether podosomes — small structures inside blood vessel cells — make brain arteries weaker and raise the risk of aneurysm rupture for people with or at risk of brain aneurysms.
-
How cells' cleanup of vessel attachments may affect brain aneurysms
This project looks at whether a cellular cleanup process in blood‑vessel lining cells weakens brain arteries and contributes to aneurysms in people at risk for intracranial aneurysm.
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.