Investigating how sex chromosomes affect atrial fibrillation and dementia

On the Basis of Sex: The Role of Sex chromosomal complement in Atrial Fibrillation and Dementia

NIH-funded research University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-11010003

This study is looking at how atrial fibrillation might be linked to dementia, especially how this connection can differ between men and women, using mice to find out more about the role of hormones and genetics, with the hope of discovering new treatments for people affected by both conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11010003 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the connection between atrial fibrillation and dementia, particularly focusing on how sex differences influence this relationship. Using a specialized mouse model, researchers will examine the role of sex hormones and chromosomal differences in the development of dementia related to atrial fibrillation. Advanced techniques such as electrocardiograms, MRI, and various cellular analyses will be employed to understand the underlying mechanisms. The goal is to identify specific pathways that could lead to targeted treatments for affected individuals.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults, particularly women, who have been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have atrial fibrillation or dementia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, sex-specific treatments for patients suffering from atrial fibrillation and related dementia.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this research is novel, previous studies have shown that understanding sex differences in disease mechanisms can lead to significant advancements in treatment.

Where this research is happening

Houston, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.