Vaccine to prevent heart attacks and strokes by targeting inflammation and cholesterol
Nanotechnology-based cardiovascular vaccines
This project develops a vaccine that trains the immune system to reduce artery-clogging inflammation and lower cholesterol for people at risk of heart attack and stroke.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11243503 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective, researchers are creating a vaccine that teaches your immune system to make antibodies against two targets linked to artery disease: S100A9 (inflammation) and PCSK9 (cholesterol). They attach small pieces of these targets to harmless plant virus-like particles to prompt a strong, lasting immune response. The team has shown protection in mouse models and will refine the vaccine design and delivery in the lab. The goal is a longer-lasting preventive option so people may not need lifelong daily drugs.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults at increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease—such as those with high LDL cholesterol, existing plaque, or prior heart attack or stroke—would be the most likely candidates.
Not a fit: People whose heart problems are not caused by atherosclerosis, or those with contraindications to immune-based therapies or vaccines, may not benefit from this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this vaccine could lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes and reduce the need for lifelong cholesterol or blood-thinning medications.
How similar studies have performed: Monoclonal therapies targeting PCSK9 have successfully lowered LDL cholesterol in patients, but vaccines for atherosclerosis are still experimental and S100A9-targeting vaccines are a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Steinmetz, Nicole Franziska — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Steinmetz, Nicole Franziska
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.