Investigating potassium channels in the cardiovascular system and their role in diseases.
Official title: Cardiovascular potassium channels: From molecular basis to disease therapeutics
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11000824 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain potassium channels in the heart work and what happens when they don't function properly, which could help us find new ways to treat heart problems, including Cantu syndrome.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $965,161 |
| NIH project number | 5R35HL171542-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11000824 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with cardiovascular diseases, particularly those affected by conditions like Cantu syndrome.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cardiovascular issues unrelated to potassium channel dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how potassium channels, specifically inward rectifier (Kir) and ATP-sensitive (KATP) channels, function within the cardiovascular system. By examining these channels at the molecular level and using animal models, the research aims to uncover how their dysfunction can lead to various cardiovascular diseases, including Cantu syndrome. The team employs advanced techniques to analyze channel proteins and their activities, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing heart-related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for cardiovascular diseases linked to potassium channel dysfunction.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding potassium channels and their role in cardiovascular health, indicating that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nichols, Colin G — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Nichols, Colin G
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.