Federal Grant Award Summary

Versiti Blood Health, Inc. received a $1,069,072 Project Grant from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) under the Cardiovascular Diseases Research program (CFDA 93.837), effective March 10, 2026, with completion targeted for December 31, 2032. The award supports fundamental research aimed at decoding Kindlin-3 signaling mechanisms in platelets and neutrophils to advance understanding of thrombosis and inflammation—two interrelated pathophysiological processes central to the development of cardiovascular disease, acute and chronic lung injury, venous thromboembolism, autoimmune disorders, and sepsis.

The research products include investigations into the molecular mechanisms by which Kindlin-3 regulates platelet activation during thrombosis and neutrophil activity during inflammation. Key deliverables encompass elucidation of the structural basis of the Kindlin-3-myosin complex in platelets and assessment of functional impacts on platelet activation using designed Kindlin-3 knock-in mouse models, as well as examination of Kindlin-3's dual regulatory roles in neutrophil inflammatory responses. This project directly addresses critical conceptual gaps relevant to the NHLBI's mission and aligns with the Cardiovascular Diseases Research program's emphasis on supporting diverse basic science and translational research activities to enhance understanding of cardiovascular pathophysiology and develop therapeutic interventions.