The University of Illinois received a $706,220 Project Grant award from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (CFDA 93.837 Cardiovascular Diseases Research) to study the role of nuclear pore component NUP93 in regulating endothelial function and atherosclerosis. The research aims to elucidate how AKT-directed phosphorylation of NUP93 influences endothelial cell inflammation, barrier permeability, and YAP-mediated transcriptional activity - ultimately impacting cardiovascular health. The project will utilize in vitro models, genetically engineered mouse models, and atherosclerosis studies to investigate the mechanisms by which impaired NUP93 phosphorylation promotes pro-inflammatory endothelial phenotypes and accelerates atherosclerotic lesion formation. This work is expected to uncover novel insights into how nuclear pore regulation can modulate vascular function and disease progression.