Investigating how a small protein affects heart function and calcium regulation

Determining the regulatory role of microprotein ALN on SERCA2a and heart contractility

NIH-funded research Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr · NIH-10994781

This study is looking at a tiny protein called ALN that helps control calcium levels in heart cells, which is really important for keeping your heart healthy, and it aims to find out how ALN works with a calcium pump to better understand heart problems and discover new ways to improve heart health.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cincinnati, United States)
Project IDNIH-10994781 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of a microprotein called ALN in regulating calcium levels in heart cells, which is crucial for proper heart function. The study examines how ALN interacts with a key calcium pump, SERCA2a, and how its activity can be influenced by phosphorylation. By using various experimental techniques, including cell cultures and cardiomyocyte studies, the research aims to uncover new insights into calcium dysregulation in heart disease. This could lead to potential therapeutic targets for improving heart health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals under 21 years old who are experiencing heart-related issues or conditions that affect calcium regulation in the heart.

Not a fit: Patients over 21 years old or those without heart disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for heart disease by restoring proper calcium regulation in heart cells.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting calcium regulation in heart disease, suggesting that this approach may be viable.

Where this research is happening

Cincinnati, 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.