Understanding how tissue structure affects blood vessel formation
Official title: Matrix biophysics and pericyte mechanobiology in (patho)physiological angiogenesis
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11078309 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the structure around cells affects special cells called pericytes that help grow new blood vessels, with the goal of finding better ways to help heal tissues in conditions like heart disease, cancer, and chronic wounds.
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 | May 5, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $575,631 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL162822-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11078309 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from conditions such as myocardial infarction, atherosclerosis, or diabetic wounds.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to microvascular diseases or those who do not require vascularization therapies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the physical properties of the extracellular matrix influence the behavior of pericytes, which are crucial for the formation of new blood vessels. By studying these interactions in a controlled laboratory setting, the researchers aim to develop new strategies for promoting vascularization in tissues affected by various diseases. The project focuses on creating three-dimensional environments that mimic natural tissue to better understand how pericytes can be guided to support blood vessel growth. This could lead to innovative treatments for conditions like heart disease, cancer, and chronic wounds.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to advanced therapies that improve healing and recovery for patients with microvascular diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in using similar approaches to enhance blood vessel formation, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Phillippi, Julie a — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Phillippi, Julie a
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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.