Understanding genetic changes in aging heart cells
Single cell, whole genome analysis of the aging human cardiomyocyte
This study is looking at how changes in the DNA of heart cells happen as we get older, which could help us understand why heart problems become more common with age, and it's for anyone interested in how aging affects heart health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11003308 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how genetic mutations accumulate in heart cells as people age, particularly focusing on cardiomyocytes, which are the cells responsible for heart contractions. By using advanced techniques to analyze DNA from individual heart cells taken from deceased individuals, the study aims to uncover the patterns and causes of these mutations. The researchers will compare the mutation rates in heart cells to those in brain cells to better understand how aging affects different organs. This could provide insights into the mechanisms behind age-related heart diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older, particularly those with or at risk for heart disease.
Not a fit: Patients under the age of 65 or those without any heart-related conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating heart disease in older adults.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding genetic mutations in aging cells, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston Children's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Choudhury, Sangita — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Choudhury, Sangita
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.