Understanding how lactate is used for energy in heart failure

Mechanism and impact of direct mitochondrial lactate oxidation in heart failure

NIH-funded research University of Utah · NIH-11029917

This study is looking at how heart cells use lactate for energy and hopes to find new ways to help people with heart failure feel better and improve their heart function.

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-11029917 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of lactate in heart failure, focusing on how it is utilized by heart cells for energy production. The study employs advanced techniques to trace the metabolic pathways of lactate in both animal models and human patients. By examining the mechanisms of lactate oxidation in cardiac cells, the research aims to uncover new therapeutic targets that could improve heart function in individuals with heart failure.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with heart failure who may benefit from novel metabolic therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with heart failure who do not have elevated lactate levels or those with other underlying conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance energy production in the failing heart, potentially improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding metabolic shifts in heart failure, but the specific focus on lactate oxidation represents a novel 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 2026-06-13 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.