Finding new ways to control heart tissue scarring and inflammation using zebrafish

Identifying new regulators of cardiac fibrosis and inflammation using zebrafish

NIH-funded research Boston College · NIH-10912073

This study is looking at how a gene called Tnni3k affects heart scarring, which can lead to heart failure, using zebrafish to learn more about how this gene works and how we might prevent or lessen heart damage in people.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBoston College NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chestnut Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-10912073 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of a specific gene, Tnni3k, in the development of cardiac fibrosis, which is the scarring of heart tissue that can lead to heart failure. By using zebrafish as a model organism, the researchers aim to understand how variations in this gene affect the heart's response to injury and the progression of fibrosis. The study involves genetic manipulation and observation of heart tissue changes in zebrafish to identify potential therapeutic targets. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how to prevent or reduce heart tissue scarring.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of cardiac injury or those at risk for heart disease, particularly younger adults.

Not a fit: Patients with established heart failure or advanced cardiac fibrosis may not benefit directly from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or reduce cardiac fibrosis, improving outcomes for patients with heart disease.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting genetic factors to mitigate cardiac fibrosis, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Chestnut Hill, 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.
Conditions Cardiac DiseasesCardiac Disorders
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.