How heart tissue changes in stiffness affects heart cell function in cardiomyopathy

Cardiomyopathy-induced changes in myocardial viscoelasticity and its effects on cell phenotype

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SANTA BARBARA · NIH-11058801

This study looks at how stiffening of heart tissue, which can happen with certain heart conditions, affects how heart cells work, with the goal of finding new ways to help treat these issues.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SANTA BARBARA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SANTA BARBARA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11058801 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how changes in the stiffness of heart tissue, caused by conditions like hypertrophic and dilated cardiomyopathy, affect the function of heart cells. The study focuses on the remodeling of the extracellular matrix, which is the supportive framework of tissues, and how this remodeling alters the mechanical properties of the heart. By examining how these changes influence heart cell behavior, the research aims to uncover critical insights into disease progression and potential therapeutic targets.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with hypertrophic or dilated cardiomyopathy.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of heart disease unrelated to cardiomyopathy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating cardiomyopathy by targeting the mechanical properties of heart tissue.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on myocardial viscoelasticity in cardiomyopathy is relatively novel, similar approaches in other tissues have shown promising results.

Where this research is happening

SANTA BARBARA, 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.