Understanding how calcium channels affect heart health and disease

Mechanisms of L-type Calcium Channel Regulation in Heart Health and Disease

NIH-funded research University of Kentucky · NIH-11096044

This study is looking at how certain channels in the heart work and how we can improve heart function in people with heart failure, aiming to find safer treatments that help the heart without the side effects of some current medications.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Kentucky NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Lexington, United States)
Project IDNIH-11096044 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of L-type calcium channels in heart function, particularly in the context of heart failure. It aims to find new ways to support heart function without the risks associated with traditional treatments that activate beta-adrenergic receptors. By studying the interactions between a protein called RAD and calcium channels, the researchers hope to develop safer therapies that enhance calcium handling in heart cells. The approach includes both pharmacological and genetic methods to understand these mechanisms better.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with heart failure or those at risk of developing heart failure.

Not a fit: Patients with non-cardiac conditions or those who do not have any heart-related issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer treatments for heart failure that improve heart function without increasing the risk of serious complications.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using alternative pathways to improve heart function, suggesting that this approach could be a valuable advancement in treatment.

Where this research is happening

Lexington, 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 2026-06-13 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.