Creating a 3D model of the heart's natural pacemaker cells
Official title: Reverse Tissue-Manufacturing of the Multicellular Sinoatrial Node Organoids
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11049043 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is creating a tiny, 3D model of the heart's natural pacemaker to help us learn how it works and find better treatments for heart rhythm problems like arrhythmia, which could lead to improved care for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $537,010 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL161366-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11049043 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults experiencing sinoatrial node dysfunction or related cardiac arrhythmias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cardiac related health issues or those who do not have arrhythmias may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a three-dimensional multicellular organoid that mimics the sinoatrial (SA) node, which is responsible for regulating heart rhythm. By recreating the complex structure and function of the SA node, the study aims to better understand how pacemaker cells work and how they can be used to treat conditions like arrhythmia. The approach involves advanced tissue engineering techniques to produce a more effective biological pacemaker that can maintain stable heart rhythms. Patients may benefit from improved therapies for heart rhythm disorders as a result of this innovative model.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with heart rhythm disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in developing biological pacemakers, but this approach of creating a 3D multicellular organoid is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Park, Sung Jin — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Park, Sung Jin
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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.