Using specialized cells to find new treatments for aortic aneurysms
Official title: iPSC-derived VSMC for high-throughput screening of small molecules for aortic aneurysm
Funded at Boston University Medical Campus · NIH-11122798 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special protein called Sirt1 can help prevent dangerous aortic aneurysms, especially for people with conditions like Marfan syndrome, by testing new drugs that might make this protein work better to keep your heart healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $122,625 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HL173511-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11122798 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with aortic aneurysms, particularly those with genetic predispositions such as Marfan syndrome.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without aortic aneurysms or those not genetically predisposed to this condition may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on aortic aneurysms, which are dangerous dilations of the aorta that can lead to life-threatening complications. The team is investigating how a specific protein, Sirt1, can be targeted to prevent these aneurysms, especially in patients with genetic conditions like Marfan syndrome. By screening a library of over 4,000 small molecules, they aim to identify new drugs that can activate Sirt1 and reduce the risk of aortic dissection. Patients may benefit from potential new therapies that could improve their outcomes and quality of life.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent aortic aneurysms and improve survival rates for at-risk patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar pathways for treating vascular conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston University Medical Campus
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Seta, Francesca — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Seta, Francesca
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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.