How the immune system responds to heart injury and inflammation
Intracellular immunity, cytosolic DNA sensing by cyclic GAMP synthase, and macrophages in ischemic injury and cardiac remodeling
This study is looking at how the immune system reacts to heart injuries caused by a lack of blood flow, and it aims to find new ways to help reduce inflammation and improve healing after heart attacks, which could lead to better treatments for heart patients like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10642718 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the immune system, particularly macrophages, responds to heart injury caused by reduced blood flow (ischemia). It focuses on understanding how DNA released from damaged heart cells triggers inflammation through a specific receptor called cyclic GAMP synthase (cGAS). By exploring this process, the research aims to develop new treatments that can modulate the immune response to reduce inflammation and promote healing after heart attacks. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to innovative therapies for heart conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced acute ischemic events or heart attacks.
Not a fit: Patients with chronic heart conditions unrelated to ischemic injury may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce inflammation and improve recovery after heart attacks.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting inflammation in cardiovascular diseases, suggesting that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
Dallas, United States
- Ut Southwestern Medical Center — Dallas, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cao, Dian — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Cao, Dian
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.