Reprogramming heart cells to improve cardiac repair
Epigenetic reprogramming of cardiac myofibroblasts for cardiac repair
This study is looking at how to change certain heart cells to help them heal better after a heart injury, like a heart attack, by focusing on a specific enzyme called EZH2, which could lead to new treatments for people with heart problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Augusta University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Augusta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10861039 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how to modify cardiac myofibroblasts, a type of heart cell that can contribute to heart failure, to promote better heart repair after injury. By using advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing, the researchers aim to understand the role of a specific enzyme, EZH2, in these cells. The goal is to inhibit EZH2 to encourage myofibroblasts to adopt beneficial properties that can enhance heart function following a heart attack. This approach could lead to new therapies for patients suffering from heart conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults with a history of heart failure or myocardial infarction.
Not a fit: Patients with non-cardiac related conditions or those who do not have heart failure may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that improve heart function and recovery after cardiac events.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar pathways for cardiac repair, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
Augusta, United States
- Augusta University — Augusta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tang, Yao Liang — Augusta University
- Study coordinator: Tang, Yao Liang
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.