How a specific protein affects heart response to pressure overload

Regulation of myocardial GPCRs by USP20 in normal and hypertrophied heart

['FUNDING_R01'] · DUKE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10861848

This study is looking at how a protein called USP20 helps heart cells respond to extra pressure, which can cause heart problems, and it aims to find out why some hearts handle this pressure better than others, with hopes that the findings could lead to new treatments for heart failure.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDUKE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10861848 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how the protein USP20 regulates heart cell receptors in response to pressure overload, which can lead to heart enlargement and failure. By studying the mechanisms of receptor trafficking and signaling, the research aims to uncover why some hearts adapt well to increased pressure while others do not. The approach includes examining the phosphorylation of USP20 and its effects on adrenergic receptors in heart cells, using both laboratory models and human heart samples. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for heart failure.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that lead to left ventricular hypertrophy or heart failure, particularly those experiencing chronic pressure overload.

Not a fit: Patients with heart conditions unrelated to pressure overload or those without significant cardiac remodeling may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for preventing or treating heart failure caused by pressure overload.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding receptor signaling in heart conditions, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

DURHAM, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.