Understanding how 3D genome structure affects heart cell identity

Deciphering how 3D genome organization orchestrates cardiac cellular identity

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-11084413

This study is looking at how the way our genes are organized in the heart cells affects their development and function, which could help us understand heart diseases like congenital heart defects and heart failure.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11084413 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how the three-dimensional organization of the genome influences the identity and function of heart cells during development. By examining the mechanisms that guide the differentiation of multipotent progenitor cells into specialized cardiac cells, the study aims to uncover the role of nuclear architecture in regulating gene expression. The approach includes advanced imaging techniques and molecular biology methods to analyze how changes in genome structure can lead to heart diseases, including congenital heart defects and heart failure.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with congenital heart abnormalities or those at risk for heart failure due to genetic factors.

Not a fit: Patients with heart conditions unrelated to cellular identity or those who do not have genetic predispositions to cardiac diseases may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and therapies for treating heart diseases linked to cellular identity and differentiation.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of genome organization in other diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights for cardiac conditions as well.

Where this research is happening

PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cardiac Diseases

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.