Creating a 3D model to study heart disease related to muscular dystrophy

Progressive loading of a human dystrophic cardiomyopathy 3D model to mimic disease and evaluate therapeutic

NIH-funded research University of Minnesota · NIH-10897967

This study is creating a 3D model of the heart to help us understand how Duchenne muscular dystrophy affects heart function, with the goal of finding better treatments for patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Minnesota NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Minneapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10897967 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a three-dimensional (3D) model of the heart to better understand and evaluate treatments for cardiomyopathy associated with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). The project involves using cardiac tissue engineering techniques to create a human chambered muscle pump that mimics the disease's progression. By studying how the heart muscle cells behave in this model, researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind DMD cardiomyopathy and identify potential therapeutic strategies. Patients may benefit from advancements in treatment options that arise from this innovative approach.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, particularly those experiencing cardiac complications.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of muscular dystrophy or unrelated cardiac conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new and effective treatments for heart disease in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using 3D modeling techniques to study cardiac diseases, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Minneapolis, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.