Heart-specific RNA that controls calcium and heart rhythm
Regulation of gene transcription and alternative splicing by a long non-coding RNA
This research looks at a heart-specific RNA that helps control calcium in heart cells and may protect people with heart failure from dangerous heart rhythms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11126794 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The team is studying a long non-coding RNA found in heart muscle that affects calcium handling and heart function. They will use human heart cells and genetically modified mice that lack this RNA to see how it changes gene activity and alternative RNA splicing. Experiments will test how those changes affect heart rhythms and whether the RNA helps protect the heart under stress that mimics disease. Results will guide whether this RNA could be a target for new heart failure or anti-arrhythmia treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with heart failure or a history of cardiac arrhythmias would be the most relevant candidates for related future studies or for donating samples.
Not a fit: People without heart disease or whose rhythm problems arise from non-calcium causes may be unlikely to benefit from findings focused on this RNA.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new treatments that reduce arrhythmias and improve heart function in people with heart failure.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown some heart lncRNAs influence calcium handling and remodeling, but targeting specific lncRNAs for therapy is still early and mainly preclinical.
Where this research is happening
Tampa, United States
- University of South Florida — Tampa, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Song, Kunhua — University of South Florida
- Study coordinator: Song, Kunhua
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.