Investigating how environmental factors and genetics affect heat-related illnesses
Official title: Environmental and Epigenetic Modifiers of Susceptibility to Malignant Hyperthermia and Environmental Heat Stroke
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-10982462 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain changes in a muscle protein can make some people more sensitive to heat-related illnesses, like Malignant Hyperthermia and heat stroke, and it aims to find ways to help those at risk, especially when it's really hot outside.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | November 28, 2022 |
| Project end | October 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $684,520 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AR082209-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10982462 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with known mutations in the Ryanodine Receptor Type 1 gene, particularly those who are athletes, military personnel, or pediatric patients who may experience heat-related illnesses.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without genetic predispositions to Malignant Hyperthermia or Environmental Heat Stroke may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how mutations in a specific calcium release channel in skeletal muscle can lead to increased sensitivity to heat-related illnesses, such as Malignant Hyperthermia and Environmental Heat Stroke. The study aims to explore the metabolic and epigenetic changes that occur in response to heat and muscle activity, which may contribute to these conditions. By examining these changes in both humans and mice, the researchers hope to identify potential preventive strategies for individuals at risk, particularly in high-temperature environments. The research will involve analyzing how these genetic factors interact with environmental conditions to influence health outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing life-threatening heat-related illnesses in susceptible individuals.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the genetic and environmental interactions related to heat sensitivity, but this specific approach is novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hamilton, Susan L — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Hamilton, Susan L
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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.