Understanding how microRNAs affect heart function in dilated cardiomyopathy
Official title: MicroRNA Control of Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-11000356 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at tiny molecules called microRNAs to see how they can help improve heart function in people with dilated cardiomyopathy, a condition that can lead to heart failure, by finding new ways to target specific genes that cause this issue.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | December 12, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $586,921 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL130840-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-11000356 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy, particularly those with known genetic mutations affecting cardiac muscle proteins.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without dilated cardiomyopathy or those whose heart failure is not linked to genetic mutations may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of microRNAs in dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a condition that leads to heart failure. By using advanced techniques, the team aims to identify specific genes that, when targeted, can improve heart muscle function in patients with DCM-causing mutations. The study involves screening synthetic microRNAs to discover potential therapeutic interventions that could restore normal heart function. The findings could lead to new treatments that directly address the underlying genetic causes of DCM.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that improve heart function and quality of life for patients with dilated cardiomyopathy.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using microRNA approaches for cardiac conditions, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mercola, Mark — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Mercola, Mark
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Discovery of rare genetic variants linked to dilated cardiomyopathy using big biobank data
A large-scale genetic study will look for rare gene variants that affect dilated cardiomyopathy to improve how we diagnose and manage the condition.
-
Understanding how muscle ribosome mutations cause severe neonatal dilated cardiomyopathy and ways to treat it
This grant focuses on a rare genetic heart condition in newborns caused by mutations in a muscle-specific ribosomal protein, with hopes to find new ways to diagnose and treat it.
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Unlocking how rare genetic changes cause dilated cardiomyopathy
A large study will look at genetic data from many people to understand which rare variants affect dilated cardiomyopathy and how this changes risk and treatment.
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Role of Lmod2 in heart muscle and dilated cardiomyopathy
This NIH grant explores how a heart-specific protein (Lmod2) helps heart cells contract properly and how its problems can cause dilated cardiomyopathy in infants and children.
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Targeting DNA Damage Pathways in LMNA-Related Heart Disease
A study to understand how damaged DNA and inflammatory signals contribute to dilated cardiomyopathy caused by LMNA mutations and explore therapies that can protect the heart.
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Using miRNA to find new treatment paths for dilated cardiomyopathy
Researchers are studying heart-muscle disease (dilated cardiomyopathy) to discover miRNA-based clues that could lead to targeted therapies for patients.
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.