How proteins in the heart affect fibrosis and arrhythmias

Extracellular matrix regulation of cellular crosstalk in cardiac fibrosis

NIH-funded research Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11047722

This study is looking at how certain proteins in the heart might contribute to scarring that can cause heart problems, and it hopes to find new ways to help people with heart conditions by understanding these proteins better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-11047722 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of specific proteins, known as latent TGFβ binding proteins (LTBPs), in the development of cardiac fibrosis, which can lead to heart dysfunction and arrhythmias. By studying how these proteins regulate the release of TGFβ, a key factor in fibrosis, the research aims to understand the underlying mechanisms that contribute to heart disease. The approach includes examining genetic variations in these proteins and their effects on heart cells in both mice and humans. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for heart conditions related to fibrosis.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with cardiac fibrosis or related heart conditions, particularly those with genetic predispositions.

Not a fit: Patients without cardiac conditions or those not genetically predisposed to fibrosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for preventing or treating cardiac fibrosis and related heart diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of LTBPs in other conditions, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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.
Conditions Cardiac Diseases
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.