Gene therapy to treat ALPK3 cardiomyopathy

Gene Therapy for ALPK3 Cardiomyopathy Using MiniALPK3

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-11134646

This study is looking at a new gene therapy that uses a harmless virus to deliver a healthy version of the ALPK3 gene into heart cells, with the hope of helping people with ALPK3 cardiomyopathy improve their heart function and slow down the disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-11134646 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of gene therapy to address ALPK3 cardiomyopathy, a condition caused by mutations in the ALPK3 gene that leads to heart disease. The approach involves using a specific type of virus, known as an adeno-associated virus (AAV), to deliver a healthy copy of the ALPK3 gene directly into heart cells. By studying mouse models that mimic the disease, researchers aim to understand how this therapy can restore normal heart function and potentially prevent the progression of the disease in patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with ALPK3 cardiomyopathy, particularly those experiencing early-onset dilated cardiomyopathy or related heart conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with cardiomyopathy caused by other genetic mutations or non-genetic factors may not benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel treatment option for patients suffering from ALPK3 cardiomyopathy, potentially improving heart function and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research using AAV-based gene therapies has shown promising results in treating various cardiovascular diseases, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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 2026-06-10 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.