Understanding how certain cells help zebrafish heal their hearts

Characterization of hapln1a positive cells during zebrafish heart regeneration

['FUNDING_R01'] · EMORY UNIVERSITY · NIH-11063138

This study is looking at special cells in zebrafish that help their hearts heal after injury, and by understanding how these cells work, researchers hope to find ways to improve heart healing for people too.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorEMORY UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ATLANTA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11063138 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how specific cells in zebrafish, known as hapln1a positive cells, contribute to the regeneration of heart tissue after injury. By studying these cells, researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms that allow zebrafish to effectively repair their hearts, which could provide insights into improving heart regeneration in humans. The approach includes advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing to analyze the behavior and characteristics of these cells during different stages of heart development and repair. This research could lead to new strategies for enhancing heart healing in patients with cardiac damage.

Who could benefit from this research

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

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

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in heart regeneration therapies for patients suffering from heart failure or damage.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding heart regeneration in zebrafish, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

ATLANTA, 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 →

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.