Understanding how ATF4 affects heart development

ATF4 a Novel Regulator of Cardiac Development

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-11085951

This study is looking at how a protein called ATF4 affects the growth and function of heart cells, using special mice to learn more about heart development and what might go wrong, which could help us understand heart issues better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-11085951 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of Activating Transcription Factor 4 (ATF4) in the development of the heart, particularly focusing on its impact on cardiac cells. By using genetically modified mouse models, the researchers aim to uncover how ATF4 influences heart cell growth and function during critical developmental stages. The study employs advanced techniques like RNA sequencing and chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing to analyze gene expression and regulatory mechanisms in heart tissues. The findings could provide insights into heart development and potential abnormalities.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals under 21 years old with conditions related to abnormal heart development or those at risk for cardiac diseases.

Not a fit: Patients with fully developed hearts and no history of cardiac issues 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 development disorders in patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that understanding transcription factors like ATF4 can lead to significant advancements in cardiac research, indicating a promising avenue for this investigation.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.