Investigating new lipid molecules in heart disease
Official title: Novel sphingolipid metabolites in myocardial ischemia
Funded at Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-10868621 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain fats in the body might affect heart health when blood flow to the heart is reduced, which can happen in conditions like ischemic cardiomyopathy, and it's for anyone interested in understanding more about heart problems and potential new treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project start | July 7, 2020 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $388,125 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL151243-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10868621 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with ischemic heart disease or those experiencing heart dysfunction related to ischemia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cardiac related conditions or those without any history of heart disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of novel sphingolipid metabolites in myocardial ischemia, a condition where blood flow to the heart is reduced. Researchers are examining how these lipids, which are important for cell signaling, may contribute to heart dysfunction in conditions like ischemic cardiomyopathy. By studying the enzymes involved in sphingolipid production, the team aims to uncover new insights into how these molecules affect heart health and disease progression. The research involves both human samples and mouse models to explore the mechanisms at play in cardiac tissues.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating heart disease, potentially improving outcomes for patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of sphingolipids in cardiac health, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cowart, Lauren Ashley — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Cowart, Lauren Ashley
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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.