Light-powered leadless devices to help the heart beat in sync
Multi-site photostimulation devices using porosity-based semiconductor heterojunctions for cardiac resynchronization therapy
This project develops tiny light-activated, leadless devices intended to help adults with irregular heart rhythms restore a steady, synchronized heartbeat.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11131293 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's view, the team is building ultra-thin silicon devices that use light to gently pace heart tissue without wires or gene therapy. They will design and make porous silicon heterojunction membranes that produce optical stimulation across multiple heart sites. The devices are tested in heart cells and in early animal models to check safety and how well they can control heart rhythm. The goal is to create a minimally invasive, non-genetic pacing option that could eventually be tried in people who need cardiac resynchronization.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with heart rhythm disorders who need cardiac resynchronization therapy or pacemaker-like support and who are interested in leadless device options would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: People who need immediate conventional pacemaker therapy, who cannot receive implants, or who are under 21 years old may not benefit from this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could provide a leadless, non-genetic way to pace the heart that may lower complications tied to wires and avoid the need for gene-based treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Laboratory and animal studies of light-based pacing and optoelectronic modulation have shown promise, but leadless, non-genetic devices for human heart pacing are largely novel and untested in people.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- University of Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tian, Bozhi — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Tian, Bozhi
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.