Improving heart recovery after a heart attack using engineered heart tissue.
Official title: Interdependence of Post-MI Local Revascularization and Remuscularization by Engineered Human Myocardium on Cardiac Remodeling and Regeneration
Funded at Brown University · NIH-11056831 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new ways to help heal the heart after a heart attack by using special materials that can deliver helpful proteins and cells right where they're needed, which could improve heart function and prevent future problems for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project start | March 18, 2024 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $601,532 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL173938-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11056831 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have recently suffered a myocardial infarction and are experiencing compromised heart function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced a myocardial infarction or those with advanced heart failure may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing advanced biomaterials that can deliver therapeutic proteins and cells directly to the heart after a myocardial infarction (MI). By customizing these biomaterials, the project aims to enhance the regeneration of heart tissue and restore blood supply to damaged areas. The approach combines strategies to re-establish microvessels and introduce new heart cells derived from human stem cells, addressing the challenges faced in current treatments. Patients who have suffered an MI may benefit from this innovative method aimed at improving heart function and preventing heart failure.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve heart recovery and function in patients who have experienced a heart attack.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using biomaterials for heart regeneration, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
Brown University
Providence, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Coulombe, Kareen Lk — Brown University
- Study coordinator: Coulombe, Kareen Lk
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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.