Investigating how specific lipids affect heart and immune cell function in children with a rare heart condition.
Official title: Glycosphingolipid-Mediated Cardiomyocyte and Immune Cell Dysfunction in Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11086778 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain fats in the body might affect heart health in people with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS), with the goal of finding new ways to help improve their heart function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $511,829 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL171600-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11086778 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include children and adults diagnosed with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome who are experiencing heart dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of congenital heart defects or those without heart-related issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the mechanisms that lead to heart failure in patients with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS), a condition where the left side of the heart is underdeveloped. The study examines the role of glycosphingolipids, particularly LacCer, in affecting heart muscle cells and immune responses. By analyzing how these lipids influence cellular functions, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets that could improve heart health in HLHS patients. The approach includes both laboratory experiments with heart cells and studies involving patient samples to gather comprehensive data.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve heart function and overall health for children and adults with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on glycosphingolipids in HLHS is novel, similar research has shown that understanding lipid metabolism can lead to breakthroughs in heart disease treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Garcia, Anastacia M — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Garcia, Anastacia M
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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.