Mapping heart activity in zebrafish to understand atrial fibrillation

Kilohertz 3D Optical Mapping of Atrial Fibrillation in Beating Zebrafish Hearts

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10886010

This study is looking at how a common heart rhythm problem called atrial fibrillation affects the heart by using tiny zebrafish to see how their hearts beat and work together, helping us understand what happens during this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-10886010 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates atrial fibrillation (AF), a common heart rhythm disorder, using embryonic zebrafish as a model. The study employs advanced optical mapping techniques to visualize the electrical and mechanical activities of the heart in real-time. By observing how these activities interact during heartbeats, researchers aim to uncover the underlying mechanisms of AF. This approach allows for a detailed analysis of heart function without the interference of motion artifacts that typically complicate imaging in living organisms.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of atrial fibrillation or those at risk for developing this condition.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of arrhythmias or those not affected by atrial fibrillation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for patients with atrial fibrillation.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies using zebrafish models have shown promise in understanding cardiac conditions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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.