Investigating the role of PITX2 in atrial fibrillation and heart development.
Official title: Left-right asymmetry and PITX2 in atrial fibrillation
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-10903854 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in a specific gene called PITX2 might influence the way your heart develops and functions, which could help us understand why some people get atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm issue.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | August 9, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $107,064 |
| NIH project number | 5K99HL169742-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10903854 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of atrial fibrillation or those at high risk for developing this condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without atrial fibrillation or those with other unrelated cardiovascular conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the genetic factors contributing to atrial fibrillation (AF), a common heart rhythm disorder. It focuses on the PITX2 gene, which is crucial for determining the left-right asymmetry of the heart during development. By studying how variations in PITX2 affect heart structure and function, the research aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that increase the risk of AF. The approach includes analyzing DNA methylation patterns and their impact on gene expression related to heart development and disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients with atrial fibrillation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding genetic factors related to atrial fibrillation, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Steimle, Jeffrey David — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Steimle, Jeffrey David
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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.