Investigating how inflamed fat around the heart affects atrial fibrillation
The Role of Highly inflamed Epicardial Adipose Tissue in the Development of Atrial Fibrillation
This study is looking at how fat around the heart might affect the risk of developing a common heart rhythm problem called atrial fibrillation, especially after heart surgery, and it aims to find new treatment options for patients who might be at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11270728 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to explore the role of epicardial adipose tissue, which is fat located around the heart, in the development of atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm disorder. The study will involve analyzing the molecular mechanisms by which these fat cells may influence heart function and contribute to the risk of developing atrial fibrillation, particularly after heart surgery. Patients will be monitored through echocardiographic assessments and blood tests to evaluate inflammation and its relationship to heart health. The goal is to identify potential new treatments for patients at risk of postoperative atrial fibrillation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients scheduled for coronary artery bypass graft surgery who may be at risk for developing atrial fibrillation.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have cardiovascular disease or are not undergoing heart surgery may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that reduce the risk of atrial fibrillation in patients undergoing heart surgery.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between adipose tissue and cardiovascular conditions, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Worcester, United States
- Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester — Worcester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tran, Khanh-Van Thi — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Tran, Khanh-Van Thi
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.