Using light therapy to treat aortic aneurysms
Photodynamic Therapy for Aortic Aneurysms
This study is looking at a new way to treat abdominal aortic aneurysms using a special light therapy that might help strengthen the aorta and reduce inflammation, and it's for people who are dealing with this serious condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10870978 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) to treat abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA), a serious condition with no current medical treatment. The approach involves applying light-sensitive agents that, when activated by light, can strengthen the tissue structure of the aorta and reduce inflammation. The study will assess changes in the extracellular matrix and immune cell populations in the aorta after treatment. By understanding how PDT affects these factors, the research aims to develop a new therapeutic strategy for AAA.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with abdominal aortic aneurysms who are at risk of complications.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of aneurysms or those who do not have abdominal aortic aneurysms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel treatment option for patients suffering from abdominal aortic aneurysms, potentially reducing the risk of rupture and associated mortality.
How similar studies have performed: While the application of Photodynamic Therapy in this context is novel, similar approaches have shown promise in treating other conditions, suggesting potential for success.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Oskowitz, Adam — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Oskowitz, Adam
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.