Investigating the role of ceramides in heart failure

Ceramides in Diastolic Heart Failure

NIH-funded research University of Utah · NIH-11000007

This study is looking at how certain fats in the body, called very long chain ceramides, might affect heart function in people with diastolic heart failure, and it aims to find new treatments that could help improve heart health for those patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Utah NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Salt Lake City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11000007 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how very long chain ceramides contribute to the structural and functional changes in diastolic heart failure, particularly in patients with preserved ejection fraction. The study will explore the effects of genetic modifications and pharmacological interventions on ceramide levels and heart function in both animal models and human patients. By analyzing blood samples and heart biopsies, researchers aim to identify ceramides as potential therapeutic targets for improving heart health. Patients may have the opportunity to participate in trials assessing new treatments that could help manage their heart failure symptoms.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with diastolic heart failure, particularly those with preserved ejection fraction.

Not a fit: Patients with systolic heart failure or those without any form of heart failure may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve heart function and quality of life for patients with diastolic heart failure.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting ceramides for therapeutic interventions in heart failure, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Salt Lake City, 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 2026-06-13 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.