Understanding fat buildup in the heart related to pulmonary arterial hypertension
Clinical and Mechanistic Understanding of Right Ventricular Steatosis in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
This study is looking at how fat buildup in the right side of the heart affects people with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and aims to find ways to help improve their heart health and ability to exercise.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10922768 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of fat accumulation in the right ventricle of the heart in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). It aims to uncover the mechanisms behind right ventricular failure, which is a leading cause of death in PAH patients. The study utilizes advanced imaging techniques to measure fat levels in the heart and explores how insulin resistance affects lipid metabolism in these patients. By identifying treatable causes of right ventricular failure, the research seeks to improve exercise capacity and overall health outcomes for individuals with PAH.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pulmonary arterial hypertension, particularly those experiencing exercise limitations and right ventricular dysfunction.
Not a fit: Patients without pulmonary arterial hypertension or those with other unrelated cardiac conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that specifically target right ventricular failure in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that targeting metabolic abnormalities in the heart can lead to improvements in heart function, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, United States
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brittain, Evan L — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Brittain, Evan L
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.