New tools to understand heart rhythm problems at a tiny level
Multi-electroplasmonic nanoantenna arrays for wireless transmembrane-level recording of cardiomyocyte action potentials with sub-micrometer resolution
['FUNDING_R01'] · MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY · NIH-11141878
This project aims to create a new way to precisely measure how heart cells communicate, which could help us better understand and treat heart rhythm disorders.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CAMBRIDGE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11141878 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Heart rhythm problems, known as arrhythmias, are a major cause of serious health issues worldwide. To find better treatments, scientists need to understand exactly how heart cells work and communicate with each other. Current methods for studying heart cell activity have limitations, making it hard to see the tiny details of how electrical signals spread. This project is developing a new technology called multi-electroplasmonic nanoantenna arrays (MENAs) to wirelessly record the electrical signals of heart cells with incredible detail. This advanced tool will allow researchers to observe how individual heart cells and networks of cells behave over time, providing crucial insights into the causes of arrhythmias.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with cardiac arrhythmias or those at risk for them could ultimately benefit from the knowledge gained through this foundational research.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical interventions or direct participation in a treatment trial would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this new technology could provide a deeper understanding of heart arrhythmias, paving the way for the development of more effective treatments and therapies.
How similar studies have performed: This project introduces a novel concept for electrophysiological recording, aiming to overcome limitations of current techniques.
Where this research is happening
CAMBRIDGE, UNITED STATES
- MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY — CAMBRIDGE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SARKAR, DEBLINA — MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
- Study coordinator: SARKAR, DEBLINA
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.
Conditions: Cardiac Diseases, Cardiac Disorders