Federal Project Grant Award Summary

Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center-Shreveport received a $737,455 Project Grant award from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) under the Cardiovascular Diseases Research program (CFDA 93.837), effective May 15, 2026 through February 28, 2030. This grant funds research investigating the role of provisional matrix-binding integrins (specifically α5 and αv integrins) in advanced atherosclerosis progression and plaque stability. The research deliverables include scientific investigations using endothelial-specific genetic deletion models to elucidate how combined inhibition of these integrin receptors can reduce atherosclerotic plaque development while promoting plaque-stabilizing features, along with mechanistic studies examining integrin signaling's role in regulating atherogenic inflammation and macrophage efferocytosis.

The project addresses a critical gap in cardiovascular therapeutics by developing a focused, targeted approach to atherosclerotic disease management. Research outputs will contribute to advancing understanding of extracellular matrix composition's role in plaque pathogenesis and vulnerability, with potential applications for developing next-generation cardiovascular therapeutics. The award supports basic and translational research conducted at LSU Health Sciences Center-Shreveport's facilities in Shreveport, Louisiana, consistent with NHLBI's mission to reduce morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular diseases through competitive, investigator-initiated research.