Investigating how RNA binding proteins affect heart development and congenital heart defects
Official title: The role of RNA binding proteins in heart development and congenital heart defects
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11083644 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called RBFOX2 affects heart development and problems like hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) in a special mouse model, with the hope that what we learn can help improve treatments for babies with heart defects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | April 12, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $728,985 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL157780-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11083644 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are infants diagnosed with hypoplastic left heart syndrome or other congenital heart defects.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with congenital heart defects unrelated to RNA binding proteins or those who do not have HLHS may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of RNA binding proteins, specifically RBFOX2, in the development of the heart and congenital heart defects like hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS). By using a specialized mouse model that mimics HLHS, researchers will explore how RBFOX2 influences RNA networks during heart development. The study employs advanced genetic, molecular, and computational techniques to uncover the mechanisms behind heart malformations. This knowledge could lead to better understanding and potential treatments for affected infants.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments and outcomes for infants born with congenital heart defects.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding genetic factors in congenital heart defects, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kuyumcu-Martinez, Muge Neslihan — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Kuyumcu-Martinez, Muge Neslihan
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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.