Understanding how a protein affects heart cell growth
Official title: Regulation of cardiomyocyte proliferation by the Reptin ATPase
Funded at Harvard Medical School · NIH-11004609 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called Reptin affects the growth of heart cells in zebrafish, which can heal their hearts, to find new ways to help adults recover from heart injuries or problems they were born with.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard Medical School NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $39,918 |
| NIH project number | 5F31HL170493-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11004609 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with congenital heart defects or adults experiencing heart disease who are interested in innovative regenerative therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cardiac conditions or those who do not have issues related to heart cell proliferation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the Reptin protein in regulating the growth of heart cells, known as cardiomyocytes, which are crucial for heart development and repair. The study uses zebrafish, a model organism that can regenerate heart tissue, to explore how manipulating Reptin levels can influence cardiomyocyte proliferation. By examining the molecular mechanisms involved, the research aims to identify new strategies for enhancing heart regeneration, particularly in adults who have suffered heart injuries or congenital defects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that promote heart cell regeneration, improving outcomes for patients with heart disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using similar approaches to enhance heart regeneration, particularly in animal models.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard Medical School
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wranitz, Felicia E — Harvard Medical School
- Study coordinator: Wranitz, Felicia E
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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.