Using statins to prevent organ transplant rejection caused by antibodies
Targeting the transcriptional co-activators YAP and TAZ with statins to prevent solid organ transplant rejection by HLA donor specific antibodies
This research explores how existing medications called statins might help stop the body from rejecting a transplanted organ by targeting specific cell signals.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11121950 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
When someone receives a solid organ transplant, their body can sometimes create special antibodies that attack the new organ, leading to rejection and a condition called transplant vasculopathy, which damages blood vessels. We don't fully understand how these antibodies cause this damage, and new ways to prevent and treat it are greatly needed. This project focuses on two key proteins, YAP and TAZ, which seem to play a central role in how these antibodies cause cells to grow and move in ways that harm the transplant. We believe that statins, a common type of medication, could block the activity of YAP and TAZ, potentially preventing rejection and protecting the transplanted organ.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for patients who have received a solid organ transplant and are at risk for or experiencing chronic antibody-mediated rejection.
Not a fit: Patients without a solid organ transplant or those not experiencing antibody-mediated rejection would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent organ transplant rejection and improve the long-term health of transplant recipients.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific link between statins, YAP/TAZ, and transplant rejection is a novel area, statins are well-established medications with known effects on cell signaling and inflammation.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Reed, Elaine F — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Reed, Elaine F
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.