Understanding how heart cells communicate during development
Official title: Mechanisms of signaling interaction between endocardium and myocardium
Funded at University of Houston · NIH-10851367 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different parts of the heart talk to each other to help it develop properly, which could give us important information about heart conditions like left ventricular noncompaction cardiomyopathy (LVNC) that affect many patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | July 10, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $675,606 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HL172834-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10851367 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with or at risk for left ventricular noncompaction cardiomyopathy or other related cardiovascular conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fully developed hearts and no history of cardiovascular issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the communication mechanisms between the myocardium and endocardium, two critical components of the heart, which are separated by cardiac jelly. It focuses on how these interactions influence the formation of trabeculae, structures essential for heart development. The study aims to uncover the roles of various ligands and receptors in this communication and explore novel microstructures that may facilitate signaling between these cells. By understanding these processes, the research seeks to provide insights into conditions like left ventricular noncompaction cardiomyopathy (LVNC), which can have severe consequences for patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for heart conditions related to abnormal trabeculation.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific mechanisms of signaling interactions in this context are not fully understood, similar research has shown promise in elucidating cell communication in other developmental processes.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wu, Mingfu — University of Houston
- Study coordinator: Wu, Mingfu
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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.