Arrdc4, a heart protein that controls sugar use during low blood flow
Arrestin domain-containing protein 4 as a novel regulator of glucose metabolism in the ischemic heart
['FUNDING_R01'] · CITY COLLEGE OF NEW YORK · NIH-11132885
This research looks at whether lowering the protein Arrdc4 helps heart cells take up more sugar during low blood flow to protect people after a heart attack.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | CITY COLLEGE OF NEW YORK (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11132885 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Scientists are studying Arrdc4, a protein that appears to block glucose transport into heart cells during low blood flow (ischemia). They use genetically modified mice that lack Arrdc4, lab-grown heart cells, CRISPR tools, and biochemical assays to measure glucose uptake and heart function after simulated heart attacks. Early data show removing Arrdc4 increases GLUT1-mediated glucose uptake and improves outcomes in mouse heart injury models. If confirmed, these lab findings could point to new drugs or gene-based treatments to help human hearts tolerate ischemia better.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who have had a heart attack or are at high risk for ischemic heart disease would be the most relevant candidates for future treatments stemming from this research.
Not a fit: Patients without ischemic heart disease or whose heart problems are unrelated to glucose transport mechanisms may not benefit from therapies targeting Arrdc4.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new therapies that boost heart sugar use during heart attacks and reduce tissue damage.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work on a related protein, Txnip, showed that deleting it boosted glycolysis and protected the heart in animal models, while Arrdc4 is a newer target that is less tested.
Where this research is happening
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
- CITY COLLEGE OF NEW YORK — NEW YORK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: YOSHIOKA, JUN — CITY COLLEGE OF NEW YORK
- Study coordinator: YOSHIOKA, JUN
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 below.