Understanding how nerve signals affect heart rhythm problems after heart attacks

Cellular Basis for Autonomic Regulation of Cardiac Arrhythmias

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10904663

This study is looking into how certain nerve signals affect heart cells after a heart attack, with the goal of finding new ways to prevent dangerous heart rhythms that can lead to sudden cardiac death.

Quick facts

Grant typeP01 program project
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-10904663 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind sudden cardiac death (SCD), which is often triggered by dangerous heart rhythm disturbances following a heart attack. The study focuses on how different nerve signals, particularly those from the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, influence heart cells in the area surrounding damaged heart tissue. By examining how these signals affect the electrical activity of heart cells, researchers aim to uncover new ways to prevent life-threatening arrhythmias. The approach includes analyzing the response of heart cells to neurotransmitters and co-transmitters that play a role in heart function.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced a myocardial infarction and are at risk for developing cardiac arrhythmias.

Not a fit: Patients without a history of heart disease or those who have not experienced a myocardial infarction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly reduce the risk of sudden cardiac death in patients who have suffered heart attacks.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that interventions targeting autonomic regulation can reduce arrhythmias, suggesting that this approach may yield promising results.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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 2026-06-15 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.