Understanding how inflammation affects heart rhythm after surgery
Official title: Macrophage-mediated interleukin-6 signaling drives ryanodine receptor 2 calcium leak in postoperative atrial fibrillation
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-10994822 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how inflammation might lead to heart rhythm problems after surgery, and it's trying to find new ways to help prevent these issues for patients without the side effects of current medications.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $49,244 |
| NIH project number | 1F30HL172431-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10994822 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing surgery who are at risk for developing postoperative atrial fibrillation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not undergoing surgery or who do not have a history of atrial fibrillation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of inflammation in causing postoperative atrial fibrillation (poAF), a common heart rhythm disorder that can occur after surgery. It focuses on the molecular mechanisms, particularly the signaling of interleukin-6, that contribute to calcium leaks in heart cells, which may lead to arrhythmias. By using a novel mouse model, the researchers aim to identify targeted treatments that could reduce the risk of poAF and its recurrence without the side effects associated with current anti-inflammatory medications. The study seeks to improve patient outcomes by addressing the underlying causes of this condition rather than just its symptoms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for preventing postoperative atrial fibrillation, reducing complications and improving recovery for patients after surgery.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting specific inflammatory pathways can be effective in managing other inflammatory conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Keefe, Joshua Anthony — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Keefe, Joshua Anthony
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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.