Investigating a receptor's role in heart issues related to muscular dystrophy

Activity and therapeutic antagonism of the TP receptor in cardiomyopathy of muscular dystrophy

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-10872165

This study is looking at how a specific receptor affects heart issues in people with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and whether a drug called ifetroban can help protect heart cells and improve heart function.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-10872165 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how the thromboxane-prostanoid receptor (TPr) contributes to heart problems in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). The study aims to explore how blocking this receptor can prevent heart cell death and fibrosis, potentially improving heart function. Researchers will use mouse models and isolated heart cells to investigate the mechanisms involved and the effects of a drug called ifetroban, which has shown promise in earlier studies. The ultimate goal is to provide insights that could lead to better treatments for heart failure in DMD patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy who are experiencing heart-related complications.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of muscular dystrophy or those without cardiac involvement may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved heart function and survival rates for patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that blocking the TPr receptor can improve heart function in animal models, indicating a promising avenue for further exploration in human patients.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, 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.