Understanding how inflammation affects heart rhythm in obesity

Channelopathies of Inflammation

NIH-funded research University of Utah · NIH-11063688

This study is looking at how being overweight can cause inflammation that might lead to serious heart problems, and it’s testing a new treatment to help prevent these issues in people with obesity.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Utah NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Salt Lake City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11063688 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the link between obesity, inflammation, and dangerous heart rhythms known as ventricular tachyarrhythmias (VT). It focuses on how excess fat in the body leads to the release of inflammatory substances like interleukin-6, which may disrupt normal heart function. The study aims to explore the underlying mechanisms of this process in laboratory settings and assess the effectiveness of a new anti-inflammatory treatment in animal models. By understanding these connections, the research seeks to pave the way for new therapies to prevent life-threatening heart conditions in obese patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are obese and at risk for heart rhythm disorders.

Not a fit: Patients who are not obese or do not have a history of heart rhythm issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce the risk of dangerous heart rhythms in obese individuals.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in targeting inflammatory pathways to improve heart health, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Salt Lake City, 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 2026-06-10 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.