Investigating how a specific potassium channel affects heart function in young patients
Official title: A hERG1 potassium channel subdomain is trafficked to the cardiac nucleus: mechanisms and targets of the hERG1NP
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10978283 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific protein in the heart, called hERG1, affects young people aged 12-20 and how changes in a related gene might lead to serious heart issues, with the goal of finding ways to help keep their hearts healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $477,134 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HL171039-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10978283 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12-20 who may have genetic variations affecting heart function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients outside the age range of 12-20 or those without genetic predispositions to cardiac disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of a potassium channel called hERG1 in the heart, particularly in young patients aged 12-20. It aims to explore how variations in the KCNH2 gene, which encodes hERG1, can lead to serious heart conditions like long QT syndrome and sudden cardiac death. The researchers will use advanced techniques such as molecular biology and confocal microscopy to study how a newly identified protein, hERG1NP, interacts with heart cells and influences their function. By examining these mechanisms, the research seeks to uncover potential targets for improving heart health in adolescents.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for heart conditions in young patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cardiac channelopathies, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jones, David K. — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Jones, David K.
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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.