Understanding heart muscle stiffness using patient-specific stem cells
Official title: Probing the Molecular Mechanisms of Diastolic Dysfunction Using Patient-Specific Stem Cells
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-10906154 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genetic changes can make the heart muscle stiff, which can lead to heart problems, especially in kids with a condition called Pediatric Restrictive Cardiomyopathy, using special stem cells to learn more about how these heart cells behave.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | August 11, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $165,996 |
| NIH project number | 5K08HL165094-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10906154 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Pediatric Restrictive Cardiomyopathy or those experiencing symptoms of diastolic dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-genetic forms of heart failure or those without a diagnosis of diastolic dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms behind diastolic dysfunction, a condition that causes the heart muscle to become stiff and is a major contributor to heart failure. By utilizing patient-specific stem cells, the study aims to analyze cardiomyocyte (heart muscle cell) behavior at a single-cell level, focusing on genetic factors that lead to Pediatric Restrictive Cardiomyopathy. The research will employ advanced techniques, including CRISPR technology, to explore how specific mutations affect heart function. This work is part of a training program designed to equip the principal investigator with the skills necessary for a successful independent research career.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for patients suffering from diastolic dysfunction and related heart conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using patient-specific stem cells and CRISPR technology has shown promise in understanding genetic heart conditions, indicating a potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Staudt, David Wells — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Staudt, David Wells
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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.