Investigating a new method for early detection of heart tissue damage
Official title: Mechanism of F-18-fluorodeoxyglucarate accrual in myocardial injury
Funded at University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr · NIH-11063262 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new imaging method using a special tracer to spot early signs of heart scarring, which can help doctors catch heart problems sooner and improve treatment options for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oklahoma City, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $362,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL169530-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11063262 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced heart conditions such as myocardial infarction or myocarditis and are at risk of developing cardiac fibrosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable heart conditions who do not exhibit signs of fibrosis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel imaging technique using a radiotracer called 18F-fluoroglucaric acid (18F-FGA) to detect early signs of cardiac fibrosis, a condition that can lead to heart failure. By utilizing positron emission tomography (PET), which offers high resolution and sensitivity, the study aims to identify fibrosis before it becomes irreversible. Current methods for diagnosing cardiac fibrosis are either invasive or lack sensitivity, making this new approach potentially transformative for early intervention in heart conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate detection of heart tissue damage, allowing for timely treatment and potentially reversing fibrosis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with similar imaging techniques, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
Oklahoma City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Awasthi, Vibhudutta — University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
- Study coordinator: Awasthi, Vibhudutta
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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.