Investigating how calcium release affects heart rhythm and function
Official title: Role of SR-mitochondria interplay in calcium-dependent arrhythmias
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-11009008 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how problems with calcium release in heart cells can cause irregular heartbeats, especially for people with a condition called CPVT, and it hopes to find new ways to help manage these heart rhythm issues by understanding the role of mitochondria in keeping calcium levels balanced.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | January 8, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $364,144 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL166169-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11009008 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with arrhythmias, particularly those with catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia or related cardiac conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cardiac related conditions or those without arrhythmias may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between calcium release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum and heart rhythm disturbances, particularly in conditions like catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT). It aims to understand how defects in the ryanodine receptor complex can lead to abnormal calcium release, contributing to arrhythmias and heart failure. The study will examine the role of mitochondria in managing calcium levels and their potential protective effects against heart rhythm issues. By analyzing these mechanisms, the research seeks to uncover new insights into cardiac diseases and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients with arrhythmias and heart failure, potentially reducing the risk of life-threatening heart conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding calcium dynamics in cardiac function, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Bin — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Liu, Bin
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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.