Understanding how calcium levels affect heart muscle function

New mechanisms of SERCA2a regulation: role of luminal calcium

['FUNDING_R01'] · LOYOLA UNIVERSITY CHICAGO · NIH-10766221

This study is looking at how calcium affects a key pump in heart cells that helps your heart relax and contract, with the goal of finding new treatments that could help people with heart failure feel better.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorLOYOLA UNIVERSITY CHICAGO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MAYWOOD, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10766221 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of calcium in regulating the SERCA2a pump, which is crucial for heart muscle relaxation and contraction. By using advanced techniques such as molecular dynamics simulations and innovative optical methods, the study aims to uncover how changes in calcium levels within heart cells influence the function of SERCA2a. The research will also explore potential therapeutic approaches to improve heart function in patients with heart failure. Patients may benefit from insights gained into new treatments that target SERCA2a regulation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with heart failure or other cardiac dysfunctions.

Not a fit: Patients without any cardiac conditions or those who do not have impaired SERCA2a function may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel therapies that improve heart function in patients with heart failure.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding calcium regulation in heart function, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

MAYWOOD, 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: Functional disorder

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.