Understanding the structure and behavior of coronary plaques in heart disease

Intravascular microstructural, chemical and biomechanical characterization of coronary plaques

['FUNDING_R01'] · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · NIH-11141041

This study is looking at how to better understand heart artery plaques that can cause heart problems, using a special imaging tool to see which plaques might be at risk of breaking apart, so doctors can quickly help patients who need it most.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11141041 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving the understanding of coronary artery plaques, which can lead to heart disease. Using advanced imaging technology called intravascular optical coherence tomography (IV-OCT), the study aims to assess the vulnerability of these plaques to rupture, which can cause serious cardiac events. By developing a new all-optical imaging platform, the research seeks to provide detailed biomechanical and chemical profiles of plaques in real-time during medical interventions. This could help identify which patients need immediate treatment to prevent heart attacks.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with atherosclerosis or those who have been diagnosed with coronary artery disease.

Not a fit: Patients without atherosclerosis or those who do not have coronary artery disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better identification of high-risk patients and more effective preventative treatments for heart disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for assessing coronary plaques, but this specific approach is novel and aims to fill existing gaps in current methodologies.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease, atherosclerotic coronary disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.