Ha and Majireck’s project “CD47-Targeted Nano-Immunotherapy for Treatment of Atherosclerosis” aims to identify a new type of drug delivery system that targets the plaques found in atherosclerosis, a leading cause of death in adults worldwide.
This research is built off of previous research pursued at MMRI, in which fluorescent and magnetic nanoparticles were designed to be delivered to macrophages, a key cell type in our immune system. The research teams, which will involve Hamilton students working at both institutions, aim to expand this method in the delivery of small-molecule drugs that targets CD47, a protein found on the surface of many cells, and which may play a key role in stimulating macrophages to consume the undesired dead cells and other cellular debris that make up deadly atherosclerotic plaques.
The AHA Institutional Research Enhancement Award supports cardiovascular disease research projects, typically at smaller institutions that have not been major recipients of National Institutes of Health funding. In addition to supporting important research, the award aims to expose students to careers in cardiovascular research, and strengthen the research environment of the recipient institution.
