How adrenaline-like signals change calcium channels in the heart
Phosphorylation-dependent regulation of calcium channels by macromolecular complexes
This work looks at how adrenaline-related signaling changes calcium channels in heart cells to help people with heart failure and dangerous arrhythmias.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11238088 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are studying how β-adrenergic (adrenaline-like) signaling and the enzyme PKA modify a small protein called Rad that controls CaV1.2 calcium channels in heart cells. They use molecular experiments, recordings of calcium currents from heart cells, and genetically engineered mice that lack specific PKA phosphorylation sites on Rad to see how those changes alter channel function. The team has shown that PKA phosphorylation of Rad releases inhibition of CaV1.2 and increases calcium influx, and they are mapping the precise molecular steps involved. The ultimate goal is to use this mechanistic knowledge to design more targeted treatments that boost heart function without causing harmful arrhythmias.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with heart failure or recurrent arrhythmias linked to abnormal calcium handling in the heart would be the most relevant candidates for future therapies arising from this work.
Not a fit: Patients with non-cardiac conditions or arrhythmias caused by structural problems unrelated to calcium channel regulation are unlikely to benefit directly.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new treatments that improve heart pumping and reduce life-threatening arrhythmias by targeting the Rad–CaV1.2 signaling pathway.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that β-adrenergic signaling and PKA modulate CaV1.2 and that Rad regulates these channels, but translating these molecular findings into safe, targeted therapies for patients is still an early-stage effort.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Marx, Steven O — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Marx, Steven O
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.