Investigating how diabetes affects blood vessel function in the heart
Official title: CaMKII and Endothelial SK Channel Function in Diabetic Coronary Microcirculation
Funded at Rhode Island Hospital · NIH-11024403 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how diabetes affects the tiny blood vessels in the heart and how certain proteins and channels play a role in this process, with the goal of finding new ways to help improve heart health for people with diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rhode Island Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $691,614 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HL176640-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11024403 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with diabetes mellitus who are experiencing heart-related issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without diabetes or those with obstructive coronary artery disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how diabetes mellitus leads to dysfunction in the small blood vessels of the heart, specifically through the impairment of endothelial cells that line these vessels. The study examines the role of calcium-activated potassium channels and a specific protein, CaMKII, in this process. By analyzing how diabetes alters these channels and the resulting impact on blood flow and heart function, the research aims to uncover potential therapeutic targets for improving heart health in diabetic patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve heart function and reduce complications for patients with diabetes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding endothelial dysfunction in diabetes, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Rhode Island Hospital
Providence, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Feng, Jun — Rhode Island Hospital
- Study coordinator: Feng, Jun
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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.