Investigating how polyphosphate affects heart fibrosis caused by a parasite.
Official title: Polyphosphate and cardiac fibrosis by Trypanosoma cruzi
Funded at University of Georgia · NIH-10850804 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a substance called polyphosphate affects heart problems in people with Chagas disease, aiming to find new ways to treat heart issues caused by this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $226,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI173402-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10850804 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Chagas disease who are experiencing cardiac symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Chagas disease or those whose heart issues are unrelated to this condition may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of polyphosphate in the development of cardiac fibrosis associated with Chagas disease, which is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. The study examines how polyphosphate influences fibroblast behavior, leading to excessive extracellular matrix accumulation and heart dysfunction. By exploring the mechanisms of fibrosis and the potential reversibility of these processes with specific treatments, the research aims to uncover new therapeutic targets for patients suffering from Chagas disease-related heart issues.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or reverse heart damage in patients with Chagas disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of polyphosphate in fibrosis, suggesting that this approach may lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Georgia
Athens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Docampo, Roberto — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Docampo, Roberto
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Interface between immune cells and scarring in the eye
This grant looks at how immune cells influence scar formation in the cornea after injury and how this affects vision.
-
How often to treat schistosomiasis to protect the liver
A randomized trial will test different frequencies ofPraziquantel treatment to prevent liver damage in people aged 15–40 with schistosomiasis in Uganda.
-
Metabolic changes in cells that repair blood vessels in the eye lens to prevent scarring
A drug or approach that changes how certain cells that repair blood vessels in the eye work, to prevent scarring behind the retina in age-related macular degeneration patients treated with anti-VEGF therapy.
-
Myocardial fibrosis and fat in ART-treated women with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa
This project studies heart tissue changes in women with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa who are on antiretroviral therapy, to understand why they’re at higher risk for heart problems as they age.
-
Myocardial fibrosis and fat in ART-treated women with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa
This grant studies heart tissue changes in women living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa to understand why heart failure risk is higher in this group.
-
Molecular clues to progressive lung scarring
Researchers are studying how lung tissue becomes progressively scarred, focusing on cell signals and receptors that may drive fibrosis in people with lung disease.
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.