What makes different parts of the aorta behave differently
Determinants of Aorta Heterogeneity
This work looks at how cell types and the aorta's supporting matrix vary along the vessel and how those differences may lead to aneurysms or dissections in people with aortic disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11099966 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are mapping which cells live in different regions of the aorta and how those cells and the surrounding extracellular matrix differ. They use advanced tools like single-cell RNA and protein profiling plus validated mouse models to reveal regional molecular and structural differences. The team will study signaling pathways and cell-to-cell communication that could make some aortic segments more prone to aneurysm, dissection, or rupture. Results are intended to point to specific molecules or processes that could become markers or targets for future diagnostics and therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with known aortic aneurysms or dissections, a strong family history of aortopathy, or other high-risk aortic conditions would be most relevant to this research and to future related studies.
Not a fit: People without aortic disease or risk factors are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this basic laboratory-focused program in the short term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to better ways to predict which parts of the aorta are at risk and to new targets for preventing or treating aneurysms and dissections.
How similar studies have performed: Previous mouse and molecular studies have shown regional differences in the aorta, and this program builds on validated models and preliminary single-cell data rather than testing a completely new idea.
Where this research is happening
Lexington, United States
- University of Kentucky — Lexington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Daugherty, Alan — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Daugherty, Alan
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.