Investigating a new approach to treat heart issues in boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
Official title: Targeting Pannexin 1 as a Novel Mechanism for Arrhythmia and Fibrosis in Duchenne Cardiomyopathy
Funded at Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-10992595 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called Pannexin 1 affects heart issues in kids with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), and it hopes to find ways to improve heart health and reduce heart problems for these children.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project start | January 7, 2021 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $148,052 |
| NIH project number | 5K08HL155852-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10992595 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are boys under 18 years old who have been diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are older than 18 or do not have Duchenne muscular dystrophy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how a specific protein, Pannexin 1, contributes to heart problems in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). The study aims to explore the mechanisms by which Pannexin 1 influences heart fibrosis and arrhythmias, which are common complications in DMD. By using animal models, researchers will examine how the absence of this protein can improve heart function and reduce dangerous heart rhythms. The ultimate goal is to identify new therapeutic targets that could lead to better management of heart disease in DMD patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly improve heart health and longevity for patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar pathways in other cardiac diseases, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Raucci, Frank J — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Raucci, Frank J
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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.