Understanding how heart pacemaker cells maintain their structure and function
Regulation of cardiac pacemaker cell cytoarchitecture
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL · NIH-11002672
This study is looking at how heart cells, called cardiac pacemaker cells, work and what helps them stay healthy so they can keep your heart beating properly, which is especially important for people who might need a pacemaker.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11002672 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the cellular mechanisms that allow cardiac pacemaker cells (CPCs) to generate the electrical impulses necessary for heart contractions. It aims to uncover the molecular pathways that create a supportive environment around these cells, which is crucial for their proper functioning. By studying how these cells interact with their surroundings, the research seeks to identify factors that could prevent dysfunction, which is a common cause of artificial pacemaker implantation. The approach includes examining the biomechanical properties of the extracellular matrix that surrounds CPCs and how these properties affect their health and performance.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults over 21 years old who have heart conditions that may involve pacemaker cell dysfunction.
Not a fit: Patients with non-cardiac conditions or those who do not have any issues related to heart rhythm or pacemaker cells may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients with heart conditions related to pacemaker cell dysfunction, potentially reducing the need for artificial pacemakers.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cellular mechanisms related to heart function, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES
- UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL — CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BRESSAN, MICHAEL C — UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL
- Study coordinator: BRESSAN, MICHAEL C
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 below.