Understanding how cell signaling affects heart development in Down syndrome
Official title: Mechanisms for cell signaling in the control of cardiomyogenesis
Funded at University of South Florida · NIH-10914374 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how certain signals in the body affect heart development in people with Down syndrome, especially to understand why they often have heart defects, and it aims to find ways to improve heart health for them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $940,216 |
| NIH project number | 7R01HL133230-07 |
| Project ID | NIH-10914374 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with Down syndrome, particularly those who have congenital heart defects.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Down syndrome or those who do not have congenital heart defects may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind heart development in individuals with Down syndrome, particularly focusing on how increased interferon signaling impacts the Wnt/β-Catenin pathway, which is crucial for cardiogenesis. By utilizing human induced pluripotent stem cells and a mouse model, the study aims to identify the molecular processes that lead to congenital heart defects commonly seen in Down syndrome. The researchers will explore how these signaling pathways can be normalized to improve heart development outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that improve heart health in individuals with Down syndrome.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cell signaling pathways related to heart development, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of South Florida
Tampa, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Song, Kunhua — University of South Florida
- Study coordinator: Song, Kunhua
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Understanding how cell signals control heart development in Down syndrome
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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.