Understanding how cell death occurs in heart attacks

Caspase-9 as a nodal point connecting necrotic and apoptotic cell death in myocardial infarction

NIH-funded research Albert Einstein College of Medicine · NIH-10875675

This study is looking at how heart cells die during a heart attack and how understanding a specific protein can help us find new ways to protect the heart and reduce damage, which could lead to better treatments for people who have heart attacks.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionAlbert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Bronx, United States)
Project IDNIH-10875675 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms of cell death in heart attacks, specifically focusing on how two types of cell death, apoptosis and necrosis, are connected. By studying the role of caspase-9, a protein that plays a crucial role in these processes, the researchers aim to uncover new pathways that could help limit heart damage during and after a heart attack. The approach involves advanced genetic and proteomic techniques to analyze how these cell death programs interact and affect heart function. If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that protect heart cells during critical events.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults who have experienced a myocardial infarction or are at high risk for heart attacks.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced a heart attack or have other unrelated cardiac conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly reduce heart damage during heart attacks.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding cell death mechanisms in heart disease, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Bronx, 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.