NIH-funded research R01 grant

Investigating how REDD1 affects insulin signaling in the heart

Official title: The role of REDD1 in insulin-mediated transcription

Funded at Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ · NIH-11032026 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how a gene called REDD1 affects heart health in people with Type II diabetes, to help find better ways to improve insulin sensitivity and protect against heart problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVirginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Blacksburg, United States)
Project startFebruary 15, 2024
Project endJanuary 31, 2029
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$458,316
NIH project number5R01HL168559-02
Project IDNIH-11032026 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with Type II diabetes who are at risk for cardiovascular diseases.

Less likely to help

Patients without Type II diabetes or those with other forms of diabetes may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of a specific gene, REDD1, in how insulin affects heart function, particularly in patients with Type II diabetes. The study aims to identify how REDD1 influences insulin sensitivity and resistance, which are critical factors in the development of diabetic cardiomyopathy, a condition that increases the risk of heart disease in diabetic patients. By using advanced genome-wide approaches, researchers will explore the mechanisms by which REDD1 operates in the heart, potentially leading to new treatment strategies that restore insulin sensitivity rather than just lowering blood sugar levels.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve heart health in patients with Type II diabetes by enhancing insulin sensitivity.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding insulin signaling pathways, but the specific role of REDD1 in this context is still being explored.

Where this research is happening

  • Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ
    Blacksburg, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Pfleger Karch, Jessica — Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ
  • Study coordinator: Pfleger Karch, Jessica

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.