Understanding how nerve signals influence heart cell growth in a marine organism.
Revealing the mechanisms of neural-mediated cardiac proliferation in Ciona robusta
This study looks at how nerve connections to the heart help heart cells grow in a sea creature called Ciona robusta, and it hopes to find ways to improve heart health that could also help people with heart problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Swarthmore College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Swarthmore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10917108 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how nerve connections to the heart affect the growth of heart cells, specifically in the marine organism Ciona robusta. By studying the role of neuropeptides released by neurons, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that promote heart cell proliferation, which is crucial for heart development and may have implications for congenital heart disease. The approach involves examining both the intrinsic and extrinsic neural innervation of the heart and how these factors contribute to cardiac health. The findings could provide insights into potential therapeutic strategies for heart conditions in humans.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with congenital heart disease or those interested in the biological mechanisms of heart development.
Not a fit: Patients with fully developed hearts and no history of cardiac issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for congenital heart disease by enhancing our understanding of heart cell growth regulation.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach in Ciona robusta is novel, similar studies in other organisms have shown promising results in understanding heart cell proliferation.
Where this research is happening
Swarthmore, United States
- Swarthmore College — Swarthmore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gruner, Hannah — Swarthmore College
- Study coordinator: Gruner, Hannah
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 below.