Investigating how sex chromosomes affect atrial fibrillation and dementia
Official title: On the Basis of Sex: The Role of Sex chromosomal complement in Atrial Fibrillation and Dementia
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-11010003 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | January 10, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $604,294 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL168979-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11010003 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include older adults, particularly women, who have been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have atrial fibrillation or dementia may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Manwani, Bharti — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Manwani, Bharti
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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.