A new method for delivering drugs directly to the heart after a heart attack
Official title: Catheter-injectable system for local drug delivery after myocardial infarct
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-10888408 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a special gel that can be injected directly into the heart after a heart attack to help deliver medicine right where it's needed, aiming to reduce inflammation and help the heart heal better, which could lead to improved heart function for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | July 14, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $156,708 |
| NIH project number | 5K99HL169844-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10888408 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have recently experienced a myocardial infarction and are seeking new treatment options to enhance heart healing.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced a myocardial infarction or those with advanced heart failure may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a catheter-injectable hydrogel that allows for the localized delivery of therapeutic drugs directly into the heart muscle following a myocardial infarction (heart attack). The approach aims to reduce inflammation and improve tissue healing by providing a sustained release of medication over time. By utilizing advanced polymeric materials and nanoparticle technology, the hydrogel is designed to remain in the heart tissue and deliver drugs effectively, addressing challenges associated with traditional drug delivery methods. Patients may benefit from improved heart function and reduced risk of heart failure as a result of this innovative treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved recovery and heart function for patients who have suffered a heart attack.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using localized drug delivery systems for cardiac therapies, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Navarro, Renato Samuel — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Navarro, Renato Samuel
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.