Understanding how certain proteins interact with a key heart channel
Official title: Investigating the interactions of auxillary subunits with the Nav1.5 channel
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10988220 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins interact with a key sodium channel in the heart to understand what might cause irregular heartbeats in people with heart failure, with the hope of finding better treatments for these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31HL164080-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10988220 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with heart failure who are at risk for arrhythmias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without heart failure or those not experiencing arrhythmias may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between auxiliary subunits and the Nav1.5 sodium channel, which plays a crucial role in heart function. By examining how proteins like FGF12A, FGF12B, and calmodulin affect the channel's behavior, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that may lead to arrhythmias in patients with heart failure. The research employs advanced biophysical techniques to analyze these interactions and their implications for drug efficacy in treating arrhythmias. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved anti-arrhythmic therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with heart arrhythmias.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding sodium channel interactions, suggesting potential for breakthroughs in arrhythmia treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Woodbury, Lucy Summer — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Woodbury, Lucy Summer
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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.