Understanding how increased calcium uptake in mitochondria affects heart function in children with mitochondrial diseases
Official title: Metabolic Impact and Mechanism of Enhanced Mitochondrial Calcium Uptake in Mitochondrial Cardiomyopathies
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-11077867 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how calcium in tiny parts of cells called mitochondria affects heart energy in kids with mitochondrial cardiomyopathies, hoping to find new ways to help their hearts work better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2018 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $590,741 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL141353-08 |
| Project ID | NIH-11077867 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are infants and children diagnosed with mitochondrial cardiomyopathies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with mitochondrial diseases that do not involve cardiac complications may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of mitochondrial calcium uptake in children suffering from mitochondrial cardiomyopathies, which are severe heart conditions caused by genetic mutations. The study focuses on how calcium signaling within mitochondria can enhance energy production, particularly in the heart, which has high energy demands. By exploring the mechanisms that regulate calcium uptake and its impact on ATP synthesis, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets for improving heart function in affected children. The research employs a combination of genetic, biochemical, and physiological approaches in animal models and human samples.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve heart function and overall health in children with mitochondrial diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding mitochondrial function and calcium signaling, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chaudhuri, Dipayan — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Chaudhuri, Dipayan
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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.