Investigating a new factor that affects calcium balance and heart rhythm issues.
Official title: A novel regulator of Ca2+ homeostasis and arrhythmia susceptibility
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-10911333 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called NFATC1 affects calcium levels in heart cells, which is important for keeping your heartbeat regular, and it aims to find new ways to treat atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm problem that can cause serious health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $133,966 |
| NIH project number | 5K01HL169489-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10911333 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation or are at risk for developing it.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have atrial fibrillation or related heart rhythm disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on atrial fibrillation (AF), a common heart rhythm disorder that can lead to serious complications like stroke and heart failure. The study aims to understand how a specific cardiac transcription factor, NFATC1, influences calcium homeostasis in heart cells, which is crucial for maintaining a normal heartbeat. By identifying the genes regulated by NFATC1 and examining the effects of its disruption, researchers hope to uncover new therapeutic targets for AF. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to innovative treatments for this condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve heart rhythm stability and reduce the risk of complications for patients with atrial fibrillation.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding genetic factors related to atrial fibrillation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Torres, Natalia — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Torres, Natalia
Related research
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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.