How PDK2 affects heart failure by changing heart cell energy use and gene control
Novel roles of PDK2 in heart failure: Regulation of mitochondrial nuclear crosstalk via metabolic regulation and histone acetylation
This work looks at whether targeting the PDK2 protein can protect the heart and improve how heart cells use energy in people with heart failure.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11309595 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers use animal models and molecular lab tests to compare the roles of two related proteins, PDK2 and PDK4, in heart failure. They examine how changes in PDK2 affect mitochondrial-to-nucleus signaling, cellular metabolism, and protein acetylation patterns that influence gene activity. The team measures heart function under stress and analyzes histone acetylation to link metabolic shifts to changes in gene control. Findings will guide whether PDK2-focused approaches could become targets for future therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with heart failure who are interested in contributing to research or participating in future related clinical trials would be most relevant.
Not a fit: People without heart failure or whose heart problems are unrelated to metabolic or mitochondrial dysfunction are unlikely to gain direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new treatments that improve heart function and survival by restoring healthy energy use in failing hearts.
How similar studies have performed: Broad PDK inhibitors like dichloroacetate have produced mixed results, and isoform-specific targeting (PDK2 versus PDK4) is a newer approach with promising mouse data but limited clinical testing.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wende, Adam Raymond — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Wende, Adam Raymond
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.