Understanding how nerve signals affect heart function after injury
Official title: Cardiac Neuromodulation: Mechanisms and Therapeutics
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10904652 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how nerve damage affects heart health in people with chronic heart issues, and it hopes to find new ways to improve heart function and prevent serious heart problems through a treatment called vagal nerve stimulation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | August 10, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $2,256,541 |
| NIH project number | 5P01HL164311-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10904652 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of heart injury or conditions that predispose them to arrhythmias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no history of cardiac issues or those who do not experience arrhythmias may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between the heart and the sympathetic nervous system in patients with chronic heart injuries. It aims to uncover how nerve damage alters neurotransmitter release, which can lead to dangerous heart rhythms. By exploring the effects of vagal nerve stimulation, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic approaches to improve heart health and prevent sudden cardiac death. Patients may benefit from insights into new treatment strategies that target these mechanisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly reduce the risk of life-threatening heart arrhythmias.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in neuromodulation therapies for heart conditions, suggesting that this approach may lead to significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shivkumar, Kalyanam — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Shivkumar, Kalyanam
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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.