Understanding Genes and Heart Health
Genetic Architecture of Cardiac Structure and Function and Its Impact on Heart Failure
This project aims to understand how our genes affect heart structure and function, helping us better predict who might develop heart failure, especially in African American communities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11117002 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Heart failure becomes more common with age and can be very serious. Before heart failure develops, changes often occur in the heart's structure and how well it works. We know that genetics play a role in these heart changes, and this project looks at common, rare, and structural genetic differences. By combining existing health information with advanced genetic sequencing from many people, including minority groups, we hope to find new genetic markers. This deeper understanding could lead to better ways to identify individuals at risk for heart failure.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is particularly relevant for individuals concerned about heart failure risk, especially those of African American descent, as it uses data from diverse populations.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or direct clinical intervention will not directly benefit from this foundational genetic research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to improved methods for predicting an individual's risk of heart failure, allowing for earlier prevention or intervention strategies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous genome-wide association studies have identified many genetic variants linked to heart structure and function, and this project builds upon those findings by exploring new genetic measures and variants.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yu, Bing — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Yu, Bing
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.