How proteins in the heart affect fibrosis and arrhythmias
Official title: Extracellular matrix regulation of cellular crosstalk in cardiac fibrosis
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11047722 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $636,294 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL167813-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11047722 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with cardiac fibrosis or related heart conditions, particularly those with genetic predispositions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without cardiac conditions or those not genetically predisposed to fibrosis may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcnally, Elizabeth M — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Mcnally, Elizabeth M
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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.