Improving heart function in pulmonary arterial hypertension by changing gut bacteria
Official title: Modulating the Microbiome to Enhance Right Ventricular Function in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-10997340 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changing the bacteria in your gut might help improve heart function for people with pulmonary arterial hypertension, and it will explore ways like special diets and supplements to support heart health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | December 8, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $175,068 |
| NIH project number | 5K08HL168166-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10997340 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pulmonary arterial hypertension who are experiencing right ventricular dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension who do not have right ventricular dysfunction or those with other unrelated cardiovascular conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how modifying the gut microbiome can enhance right ventricular function in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension, a condition that leads to increased pressure in the lungs and heart failure. The study will explore the role of specific gut bacteria, particularly Lactobacillus, in reducing inflammation and improving heart function. By using dietary interventions like intermittent fasting and potential supplementation, the research aims to identify effective strategies to support heart health in affected patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new dietary-based therapies that improve heart function and survival rates in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in using microbiome modulation to improve health outcomes, suggesting that this approach may be effective, though it is still an emerging area of study.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Prisco, Sasha Zheng — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Prisco, Sasha Zheng
Related research
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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.