Transformative protein-misfolding blood test for heart disease
Official title: A Transformative Structural Proteomics Platform for Early Detection of Misfolding-Driven Cardiovascular Diseases
Funded at 3d Bioanalytix, INC. · NIH-11358636 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A blood test called Amyfold, based on a new protein-mapping method, could help doctors catch early misfolding-related heart diseases in people at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | 3d Bioanalytix, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2026 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $421,400 |
| NIH project number | 1R33HL185603-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11358636 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults who are at risk for or suspected to have transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy or related amyloid-related cardiovascular conditions, and who can provide blood samples for testing.
✕Less likely to help
People without suspected misfolding-related cardiovascular disease or no access to blood sampling may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project adapts a cutting-edge protein-mapping platform to blood samples to detect misfolded proteins linked to heart disease. It focuses on creating a first‑in‑class blood test for transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy and related conditions, using mass spectrometry to measure protein shape changes directly in plasma. By validating performance and preparing for clinical use, it aims to speed accurate diagnosis and enable timely treatment for patients with or at risk for amyloid-related heart disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, Amyfold could enable earlier, less invasive diagnosis and better monitoring, potentially slowing or preventing progression of misfolding-related heart disease.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary pilot studies showed high sensitivity and specificity in detecting misfolded proteins, supporting continued development.
Where this research is happening
-
3d Bioanalytix, INC.
San Diego, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pankow, Sandra — 3d Bioanalytix, INC.
- Study coordinator: Pankow, Sandra
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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.