Understanding Heart Regeneration in Adults
Cardiomyocyte Non-autonomous Factors and Cardiac Regeneration in Large Mammals
This research explores how heart cells might be encouraged to repair themselves after injury, especially in adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mayo Clinic Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Scottsdale, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11120906 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Unlike some animals, adult human hearts have a very limited ability to heal themselves after damage, such as a heart attack. However, very young mammals, including newborn pigs, show a remarkable capacity for heart regeneration. This project aims to discover the specific signals and interactions between different types of heart cells that allow this regeneration to happen. By studying these natural healing processes, we hope to find new ways to help adult hearts repair themselves.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patients, but future clinical applications could benefit individuals who have experienced heart damage.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options will not directly benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that help adult hearts regenerate damaged tissue, potentially improving recovery after heart attacks.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies in fish and rodents have shown promising insights into heart regeneration, and preliminary data from this team supports the idea that certain cell interactions are critical.
Where this research is happening
Scottsdale, United States
- Mayo Clinic Arizona — Scottsdale, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhu, Wuqiang — Mayo Clinic Arizona
- Study coordinator: Zhu, Wuqiang
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.