Protecting the diaphragm (breathing muscle) in heart failure
Reactive Oxygen Species and Respiratory Muscle Dysfunction in Heart Failure
['FUNDING_R01'] · DUKE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11092215
This project uses gene delivery to reduce harmful reactive oxygen molecules and help strengthen the breathing muscle in people with chronic heart failure.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | DUKE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11092215 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This work looks at why the diaphragm gets weak in people with chronic heart failure by focusing on harmful reactive oxygen species and damaged muscle proteins. Researchers are studying how a key transcription factor change and specific protein oxidation cause diaphragm weakness and are testing gene-delivery methods to boost enzymes that reverse that damage. Much of the work uses laboratory models and tissue studies to see if reversing targeted oxidation restores muscle strength, and the team is exploring AAV-based delivery to increase protective enzymes in the muscle. Findings could point toward future gene or drug approaches to protect breathing muscles in people with heart failure.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with chronic heart failure and reduced ejection fraction who are experiencing breathing or diaphragm weakness would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: People without heart failure, patients with heart failure but no diaphragm weakness, or those whose breathing problems are caused by other lung or neuromuscular disorders may not benefit from these specific approaches.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to treatments that strengthen the diaphragm and improve breathing, airway clearance, and quality of life for people with chronic heart failure.
How similar studies have performed: Preclinical studies and the investigators' preliminary data show that boosting antioxidant enzymes can prevent diaphragm contractile dysfunction in heart failure models, but similar approaches have not yet been proven in people.
Where this research is happening
DURHAM, UNITED STATES
- DUKE UNIVERSITY — DURHAM, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: FERREIRA, LEONARDO — DUKE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: FERREIRA, LEONARDO
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.