Understanding how the heart's outer layer helps form blood vessels
Mechanisms of epicardium-directed coronary vessel patterning
This study is looking at how a special layer of cells on the heart helps shape the blood vessels that supply it, which could help us understand heart development better and find new ways to treat heart diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10908469 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the epicardium, a layer of cells on the heart's surface, influences the development and organization of coronary blood vessels. By examining the behavior of vascular endothelial cells during heart development, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that guide these cells to mature into specific types of blood vessels. Researchers will utilize advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing to analyze the interactions between epicardial cells and endothelial cells, providing insights into how these processes are regulated. This work could lead to a better understanding of heart development and potential therapeutic targets for cardiovascular diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with congenital heart defects or other cardiovascular conditions that may benefit from improved understanding of blood vessel development.
Not a fit: Patients with fully developed cardiovascular systems and no history of heart disease may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating heart conditions by improving blood vessel formation and function.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding vascular development, but this specific approach focusing on epicardial mechanisms is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- University of Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Small, Eric M — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Small, Eric M
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.