Understanding how immune cells affect heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

Investigating the Role of Macrophages in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11127012

This study is looking at how certain immune cells called macrophages might affect heart health in people with heart failure that feels normal on tests, and it aims to find new ways to help improve their condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-11127012 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of inflammatory macrophages in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), a condition where patients experience heart failure symptoms despite normal heart function. Using animal models, the study aims to uncover how these immune cells contribute to heart remodeling and dysfunction. Researchers will explore the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved, particularly focusing on how macrophages influence the behavior of cardiac fibroblasts, which are crucial for heart structure and function. The findings could lead to new insights into potential treatments for HFpEF.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, particularly those with comorbidities like obesity and diabetes.

Not a fit: Patients with heart failure due to reduced ejection fraction or those without the associated comorbidities may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for patients suffering from heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the role of inflammation in heart conditions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.