How sodium affects heart function through calcium regulation

Sodium Dependent Inactivation of the Na+-Ca2+ exchange: Relevance to Cardiac Function

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10749030

This study is looking at how sodium affects calcium levels in heart cells, which is important for keeping your heart working well, and it aims to find out how changes in sodium might help us understand and treat heart rhythm problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-10749030 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of sodium in regulating calcium levels in heart cells, which is crucial for maintaining proper heart function. The study focuses on a specific protein, the Na+-Ca2+ exchanger, that helps control the balance of these ions. By using advanced techniques like CRISPR for genomic modification, the researchers aim to understand how changes in sodium levels can impact heart contractility and excitability. This could lead to new insights into heart health and potential treatments for arrhythmias.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who have heart conditions or are at risk for arrhythmias.

Not a fit: Patients with non-cardiac conditions or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for heart conditions, particularly those related to arrhythmias.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of investigating Na+-dependent inactivation in vivo is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding ion regulation in cardiac function.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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 2026-06-13 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.