Investigating how a specific enzyme affects blood vessel function and organ injury during heart surgery
Official title: The effects of soluble guanylyl cyclase stimulation on perioperative vascular reactivity and organ injury in cardiac surgery trial
Funded at Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-10917127 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific enzyme affects blood vessel function and can lead to problems like kidney and brain injuries during heart surgery, with the goal of finding ways to help patients recover better and stay healthier after their procedures.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $448,407 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL164909-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10917127 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients scheduled for cardiac surgery who may be at risk for acute kidney or brain injuries.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not undergoing cardiac surgery or those with pre-existing severe organ dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of soluble guanylyl cyclase in regulating blood vessel function and its impact on organ injuries, particularly acute kidney and brain injuries, during cardiac surgery. The study aims to explore how disruptions in vascular reactivity can lead to complications such as delirium and longer hospital stays for patients. By examining the mechanisms behind these injuries, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets that could improve patient outcomes. Patients undergoing cardiac surgery may be monitored for changes in vascular function and organ health throughout the surgical process.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing organ injuries during cardiac surgery, ultimately enhancing recovery and reducing complications for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that targeting vascular reactivity can lead to improved outcomes in similar patient populations, suggesting a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lopez, Marcos G — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Lopez, Marcos G
Related research
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A clinician-scientist at UNC Chapel Hill is studying why some patients develop widespread, nociplastic-like pain after heart surgery and ICU stay, to improve prevention and care.
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This grant tests advanced data methods to find links between detailed intraoperative heart-surgery measurements and patient outcomes after procedures like CABG.
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Wearable ultrasound patch to monitor heart health after pediatric heart surgery
A small, disposable ultrasound patch worn on babies and young children after heart surgery will measure heart function and blood pressure in real time, aiming to catch problems early.
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Using smart computer predictions to prevent kidney injury after heart surgery
A machine-learning approach uses routinely collected hospital data to predict who might develop acute kidney injury after heart surgery, so clinicians can act early.
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.