Protecting the heart after a heart attack with a new small RNA therapy
Cardioprotective mechanisms of novel noncoding RNA in myocardial infarction
['FUNDING_R01'] · CEDARS-SINAI MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11317129
A new small RNA drug inspired by molecules in cell exosomes aims to protect the heart and reduce damage after a heart attack.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | CEDARS-SINAI MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11317129 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project is developing TY4, a small noncoding RNA inspired by Y RNA fragments found in exosomes, as a potential heart-protecting agent after myocardial infarction. Researchers are testing TY4 in mouse models of heart injury and heart failure and have formulated it with the breast‑milk protein casein so it can be given orally in preclinical studies. Early data show TY4 changes inflammatory and fibrotic gene programs, appears to require macrophages to work, and binds a nuclear pore protein called TPR. The work is preclinical but is intended to inform safety and effectiveness testing that could lead to future human trials.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who have recently had a myocardial infarction or who are recovering from heart-attack–related heart damage would be the most relevant candidates for future clinical testing.
Not a fit: Patients with heart problems unrelated to heart attack, advanced multi-organ failure, or conditions that make oral RNA therapies unsafe may not benefit from this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could become an oral RNA therapy that limits heart damage and scarring after a heart attack and improves recovery of heart function.
How similar studies have performed: While other RNA-based medicines have succeeded in humans for different diseases, this specific Y RNA–inspired oral formulation is novel and so far shows promise only in animal models.
Where this research is happening
LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES
- CEDARS-SINAI MEDICAL CENTER — LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MARBAN, EDUARDO — CEDARS-SINAI MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: MARBAN, EDUARDO
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.