Investigating a new biomarker for postoperative atrial fibrillation

Atrial and blood JNK in Postoperative AF

NIH-funded research Ohio State University · NIH-11046585

This study is looking at a common heart issue that can happen after surgery, called postoperative atrial fibrillation, and is trying to find a way to predict and prevent it by focusing on a specific protein called JNK, which might help doctors better care for patients who are at risk.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOhio State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11046585 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF), a common complication after open-heart surgery that can lead to increased mortality and healthcare costs. The study aims to identify the stress-response kinase JNK as a potential biomarker for predicting and preventing POAF in surgical patients. By exploring the effects of local JNK inhibition in the atria, the research seeks to develop new therapeutic strategies to mitigate the risk of developing POAF. The approach involves analyzing the relationship between JNK activation and various predisposing factors such as advanced age and alcohol consumption.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing open-heart surgery, particularly those at risk for postoperative atrial fibrillation due to factors like advanced age or alcohol use.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing surgery or do not have risk factors for postoperative atrial fibrillation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prediction and prevention of postoperative atrial fibrillation, enhancing patient outcomes after heart surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in identifying biomarkers for atrial fibrillation, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Columbus, 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.