Targeting specific cells to repair heart damage after a heart attack

Fibroblast targeting for myocardial repair

NIH-funded research University of South Carolina at Columbia · NIH-11031927

This study is looking at how a certain type of cell in the heart can help heal after a heart attack, and it aims to find new ways to improve heart health for people who have experienced one.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of South Carolina at Columbia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11031927 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how targeting a specific type of cell, known as fibroblasts, can help repair the heart after a myocardial infarction (heart attack). The study focuses on understanding how these cells contribute to changes in heart structure and function, which can lead to heart failure. By using a special mouse model, researchers will explore whether silencing a particular protein in these cells can prevent further damage and promote recovery of heart tissue. The ultimate goal is to develop new treatments that improve heart health after a heart attack.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced a myocardial infarction and are at risk for heart failure.

Not a fit: Patients who have not had a heart attack or those with other unrelated cardiovascular conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that enhance recovery and prevent heart failure in patients who have suffered a heart attack.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting fibroblasts for cardiac repair, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

Columbia, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions atherosclerotic coronary diseasecancer metastasisCancersCardiovascular Diseasescardiovascular disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.