How obesity affects heart function in patients with preserved ejection fraction

Intersection of Obesity and Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11021036

This study is looking at how obesity affects the heart in people with heart failure, especially focusing on African American and female patients, to help find better treatments tailored to their needs.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-11021036 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the biological mechanisms by which obesity impacts the heart in patients suffering from heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). The study aims to identify the specific changes in heart muscle caused by obesity, which is crucial for developing targeted therapies. By focusing on a diverse group of patients, particularly those who are African American and female, the research will utilize advanced techniques, including myocardial biopsies, to gain insights into the cellular and molecular changes associated with this condition. The ultimate goal is to create precision-guided treatments that address the unique challenges posed by obesity in heart failure.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction, particularly those who are obese and may also have diabetes or metabolic syndrome.

Not a fit: Patients without heart failure or those who do not have obesity-related complications may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, effective therapies for patients with heart failure and obesity, significantly improving their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between obesity and heart failure, but this specific approach is novel and aims to fill significant gaps in current knowledge.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.