Investigating the link between mitochondrial DNA and heart disease risk factors
Mitochondrial DNA, Nuclear DNA Methylation, and Cardiometabolic Disease Traits
This study is looking at how the DNA from our cells and the DNA from our mitochondria work together to affect how our bodies use energy, which could help us understand the risks for heart-related issues like obesity and metabolic syndrome.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10877740 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores how mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and nuclear DNA (nDNA) interact to influence energy metabolism and its impact on cardiometabolic diseases. By analyzing blood samples from a large group of participants, the study aims to understand how variations in mtDNA copy number can predict risks for conditions like obesity and metabolic syndrome. The researchers will utilize a unique mouse model to examine the molecular mechanisms behind these associations, focusing on DNA methylation and gene expression. This approach could reveal new insights into the biological processes that contribute to heart disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a family history of cardiovascular disease or those exhibiting risk factors such as obesity or metabolic syndrome.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have any cardiovascular risk factors or metabolic conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for predicting and preventing cardiometabolic diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of mitochondrial DNA in metabolic diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston University Medical Campus — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Chunyu — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Liu, Chunyu
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 below.