Investigating genetic causes of a serious heart defect in infants
Official title: Functional screen for genetic causes of hypoplastic left heart syndrome
Funded at Georgia Institute of Technology · NIH-10816448 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS), a serious heart condition in babies, by using frogs to help find out which genes might cause it, with the hope that this will lead to better ways to diagnose and treat the condition early on.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Georgia Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $175,349 |
| NIH project number | 5R21HD110918-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10816448 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include infants diagnosed with hypoplastic left heart syndrome or those with a family history of congenital heart defects.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with congenital heart defects other than hypoplastic left heart syndrome may not benefit directly from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS), a severe congenital heart defect that affects the left ventricle's ability to pump blood. By using a frog model, the researchers aim to identify the genetic factors that contribute to this condition, which is often fatal in infants. The study will involve functional screening to explore how various genetic changes impact heart structure and function. This approach seeks to fill the knowledge gap regarding the genetic mechanisms behind HLHS, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for infants with hypoplastic left heart syndrome.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in using animal models to study congenital heart defects, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Georgia Institute of Technology
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nie, Shuyi — Georgia Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Nie, Shuyi
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.