Investigating a mitochondrial enzyme's role in heart health for patients with complex I defects
Official title: Nicotinamide nucleotide transhydrogenase and bioenergetic metabolism in complex I defective cardiac mitochondria
Funded at Central Michigan University · NIH-10360118 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special enzyme called NNT might help protect the hearts of people with inherited mitochondrial diseases, especially those with certain heart problems, by boosting energy in heart cells and reducing stress on them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Central Michigan University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Mount Pleasant, United States) |
| Project start | February 15, 2022 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $439,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R15HL157838-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10360118 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include children and young adults diagnosed with inherited mitochondrial diseases, particularly those with complex I defects.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without mitochondrial diseases or those whose heart conditions are unrelated to mitochondrial dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how a specific mitochondrial enzyme, nicotinamide nucleotide transhydrogenase (NNT), can help protect heart function in patients with inherited mitochondrial diseases, particularly those with complex I defects. These defects can lead to serious heart conditions like cardiomyopathy and heart failure. The study aims to explore whether enhancing the activity of NNT can improve energy production in heart cells and reduce oxidative stress, which is often exacerbated by these defects. By examining the relationship between NNT and heart metabolism, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic strategies for affected patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve heart function and quality of life for patients with mitochondrial diseases.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of targeting NNT in this context is novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding mitochondrial function and its impact on heart health.
Where this research is happening
-
Central Michigan University
Mount Pleasant, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rosca, Georgeta Mariana — Central Michigan University
- Study coordinator: Rosca, Georgeta Mariana
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.