Smyd1 — a heart enzyme that helps heart muscle cells make energy
The methyltransferase Smyd1 regulates cardiac physiology
Looks at whether the heart-specific enzyme Smyd1 can keep heart cells' energy working and help prevent heart failure in adults with coronary artery disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Utah State Higher Education System--University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11131166 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From my perspective, the team will study how Smyd1 controls energy production in heart muscle cells using lab experiments and genetically modified mice that lack Smyd1 in heart cells. They will measure how well the mitochondria make energy, how hearts respond to reduced blood flow, and how losing Smyd1 leads to weakened heart function. The researchers will also use molecular tools, including CRISPR and cell-based studies, to explore whether targeting Smyd1 could be developed into a safe treatment approach.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with coronary artery disease or early-stage heart failure would be the likely groups to benefit or be eligible for related future trials.
Not a fit: People without heart disease or those whose heart problems are caused by non-metabolic issues may not receive direct benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to therapies that protect heart muscle energy and reduce the risk of heart failure after coronary artery disease.
How similar studies have performed: Some animal studies show epigenetic regulators can reduce heart injury, but focusing on Smyd1 is a new and relatively untested approach.
Where this research is happening
Salt Lake City, United States
- Utah State Higher Education System--University of Utah — Salt Lake City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Franklin, Sarah — Utah State Higher Education System--University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Franklin, Sarah
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.