Investigating the role of branched chain amino acids in heart failure

Branched chain amino acids in heart failure

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11049397

This study is looking at how certain amino acids, called branched chain amino acids, might help improve heart function for people with heart failure by promoting better blood flow and relaxing blood vessels.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11049397 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how branched chain amino acids (BCAAs) like leucine, valine, and isoleucine affect heart failure. The study aims to explore the metabolism of these amino acids and their potential to improve heart function by promoting blood flow and relaxation of blood vessels. Researchers will conduct experiments to determine how activating BCAA catabolism can lead to better outcomes for patients with heart failure. The findings could pave the way for new treatments that target these metabolic pathways.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with heart failure, particularly those over the age of 65.

Not a fit: Patients with heart failure who do not have elevated levels of branched chain amino acids may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel therapies that improve heart function and reduce hospital admissions for patients with heart failure.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in using BCAA metabolism to improve heart function, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.