Investigating how immune cells affect heart conduction in the AV node
Cardiac resident macrophages in AV node conduction
This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the heart affect its rhythm, using special mice to see what happens when these cells are removed, with hopes of finding new treatments for people who have heart rhythm problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10986993 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of macrophages, a type of immune cell, in the atrioventricular (AV) node of the heart, which is crucial for proper heart rhythm. The study involves using genetically modified mice to observe how the depletion of these macrophages affects heart conduction and the potential for developing new therapies targeting these cells. By implanting pacemakers in these mice, researchers aim to understand the relationship between macrophages and heart function, with the goal of translating these findings into potential treatments for patients with AV conduction disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with atrioventricular conduction abnormalities or those at risk of developing such conditions.
Not a fit: Patients without any conduction disorders or those who do not have a significant risk of developing AV node issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that improve heart conduction and reduce the need for pacemakers in patients with AV node dysfunction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of immune cells in heart function, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hulsmans, Maarten — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Hulsmans, Maarten
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 below.