Improving heart-targeted gene therapy delivery

Engineered polymeric adjuvants for heart-redirected targeting and gene therapy

NIH-funded research Case Western Reserve University · NIH-11101109

This study is looking at new ways to deliver gene therapies directly to the heart to help improve treatments for heart diseases, making them safer and more effective for adults.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCase Western Reserve University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cleveland, United States)
Project IDNIH-11101109 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the delivery of gene therapies specifically to the heart, addressing the significant unmet need for effective treatments for various cardiomyopathies. The approach involves using engineered polymeric adjuvants to improve the targeting and efficacy of therapies like adeno-associated viral (AAV) and nanoparticle (NP) gene therapies. By co-delivering these therapies with synthetic enhancers, the research aims to overcome challenges related to low effectiveness and immune responses in adult patients. The ultimate goal is to increase the safety and effectiveness of these treatments for heart conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults suffering from cardiomyopathies who currently have limited treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with heart conditions that are not classified as cardiomyopathies may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and safer gene therapies for patients with heart diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Preliminary studies have shown promise in enhancing therapeutic delivery using similar approaches, indicating potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Cleveland, 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.