Improving heart function after injury by targeting cell communication

Targeting cardiac fibroblast-myocyte cross talk to enhance heart function after cardiac injury

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10685568

This study is looking at how heart cells talk to each other to help heal the heart after an injury, focusing on a protein called ENPP1, and aims to create new treatments that could help people recover better after heart attacks or other heart 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-10685568 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how communication between heart cells, specifically fibroblasts and myocytes, can be manipulated to improve heart repair after injury. The study focuses on a protein called ENPP1, which is produced by fibroblasts following cardiac injury and influences the healing process. By understanding the molecular mechanisms involved, the researchers aim to develop small molecule inhibitors that can enhance heart function and reduce scarring. Patients may benefit from new treatments that improve recovery after heart attacks or other cardiac injuries.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced cardiac injury, such as heart attacks or severe heart conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with non-cardiac related health issues or those who have not experienced any form of cardiac injury may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that significantly enhance heart recovery and function after injury.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting cell communication for cardiac repair, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

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 2026-06-09 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.