New methods to convert heart scar cells into heart muscle cells

Novel approaches for cardiac reprogramming: Exosome delivery of reprogramming miRNAs and repressor targeting siRNAs

['FUNDING_R01'] · DUKE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11101673

This study is looking at new ways to turn scar tissue in the heart into healthy heart muscle cells, which could help improve heart function after an injury, and it's designed for people who have experienced heart damage.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDUKE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11101673 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates innovative ways to transform scar tissue cells in the heart into functional heart muscle cells, which could improve heart function after injury. The approach involves delivering specific molecules that can enhance this transformation while overcoming barriers that currently limit effectiveness. By targeting these molecules directly to the heart tissue after an injury has stabilized, the research aims to optimize the timing and delivery of these reprogramming factors. The study will explore the mechanisms that inhibit this process and test new strategies in a mouse model of cardiac injury.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients who have experienced cardiac injuries, such as heart attacks, and have developed scar tissue in their hearts.

Not a fit: Patients with non-cardiac related conditions or those without significant heart injury may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved heart function and recovery for patients with heart injuries.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in similar approaches to cardiac reprogramming, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

DURHAM, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.