Investigating treatments for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

Blockade of calcium channels and beta adrenergic receptors for physiologic abnormalities in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (BLOCK HFpEF)

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10909150

This study is looking at how common blood pressure medications, like calcium channel blockers and beta-blockers, can help people with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) feel better and improve their heart function and ability to exercise.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10909150 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), a condition affecting over 5 million adults in the U.S. The study aims to explore how common antihypertensive medications, specifically calcium channel blockers and beta-blockers, can address the unique physiological challenges faced by patients with HFpEF. By comparing the effects of these medications, the research seeks to identify potential new therapies that could improve patient outcomes and quality of life. The approach involves a detailed mechanistic investigation to understand how these drugs influence heart function and exercise capacity in affected individuals.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, particularly those who also have hypertension.

Not a fit: Patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction or those without hypertension may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options that significantly improve the quality of life for patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.

How similar studies have performed: While there is ongoing research in heart failure treatments, this specific approach comparing calcium channel blockers and beta-blockers in HFpEF is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

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 2026-06-13 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.