Regulation of atherosclerosis by TPL-2 kinase
Professor Steven Ley is studying a protein in cells called TPL-2, which is needed for some cells to become activated in atherosclerosis, when arteries become ‘furred up’ with fatty plaques. In atherosclerosis, inflammation occurs within the blood vessel wall, and can lead to blood clots, heart attacks and strokes. TPL-2 controls molecules called ERK-MAP kinases, which are activated in atherosclerosis. In this project, Professor Ley will find out if mice that have been genetically engineered to have faulty TPL-2 proteins are protected against atherosclerosis. They will find out what how faulty TPL-2 affects genes important in atherosclerosis by studying cells involved in blood vessel inflammation, such as macrophages. This study will reveal whether TPL-2 has a role in atherosclerosis development. Drugs that target TPL-2 are already being developed to treat arthritis and other inflammatory diseases, so this research may reveal if they can be used to treat blood vessel diseases.
Project details
| Grant amount | £274,064 |
|---|---|
| Grant type | Project Grants |
| Application type | Project Grant |
| Start Date | 01 February 2017 |
| Duration | 3 years |
| Reference | PG/15/57/31580 |
| Status | In Progress |
