How heart muscle proteins move and how we might control them
Understanding and controlling protein energy landscapes by combining simulations and experiments
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-11312648
Researchers are using computer models, lab experiments, and AI to learn how heart muscle proteins (myosin) change shape so future drugs can better fix heart problems.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11312648 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
The team combines atom-by-atom computer simulations, biophysics experiments, and machine learning to map the range of shapes myosin proteins adopt. They plan to apply these tools to large myosin motors that drive heart contraction to see how genetic changes alter their behavior. By linking sequence, structural ensembles, and function, they aim to spot ways to design molecules that stabilize or correct myosin function. This builds on prior progress with smaller proteins but pushes into a harder, more medically relevant target.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with inherited cardiomyopathies linked to myosin (beta-myosin/MYH7) mutations or those willing to donate blood or tissue samples for lab studies would be most relevant to this work.
Not a fit: Patients whose heart disease is not related to myosin mutations or those seeking immediate treatment changes are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this basic lab-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to more precise drugs for heart muscle disease and better interpretation of genetic variants that cause cardiomyopathy.
How similar studies have performed: Similar combined simulation-and-experiment approaches have shown promise for smaller proteins, but applying them to large myosin motors is newer and less proven.
Where this research is happening
PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA — PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BOWMAN, GREGORY — UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
- Study coordinator: BOWMAN, GREGORY
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.
Conditions: Cardiac Diseases, Cardiac Disorders