Identifying early metabolic signs of muscular dystrophy and heart disease.

Development of early metabolic imaging biomarkers for muscular dystrophy and cardiomyopathy in patients

NIH-funded research Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-11118664

This study is looking for new ways to spot early signs of muscular dystrophy and heart issues by checking how your muscles and heart use energy, so we can catch problems before they get serious and improve treatment options for you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUt Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Dallas, United States)
Project IDNIH-11118664 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing new imaging biomarkers to detect early signs of muscular dystrophy and related heart conditions in patients. By examining how the body metabolizes energy, particularly in muscle and heart tissues, the study aims to identify changes that occur before significant damage happens. The approach involves advanced imaging techniques to monitor metabolic processes, which could lead to better management of these conditions. Patients will be closely monitored to understand the progression of their disease and the effectiveness of potential treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Duchenne or Becker muscular dystrophy, particularly those aged 21 and older.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of muscular dystrophy or unrelated neuromuscular disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier diagnosis and improved treatment strategies for patients with muscular dystrophy and cardiomyopathy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using metabolic imaging to assess other neuromuscular disorders, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Dallas, 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.