Understanding how radiation affects heart rhythm problems

Determining the Mechanisms of Radiation Biomodulation of the Ventricular Tachycardia Arrhythmogenic Substate

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-11192963

This study is looking at a new way to help people with a tough heart rhythm problem called ventricular tachycardia by using a special type of radiation therapy, to see how it works and why some people respond better than others, so we can make the treatment more effective for everyone.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11192963 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of cardiac stereotactic body radiation therapy (cSBRT) as a treatment for patients with ventricular tachycardia (VT), a serious heart rhythm disorder. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind the variable responses to this noninvasive therapy, which is used when traditional treatments like medications and catheter ablation are not effective. By analyzing how radiation interacts with the heart's electrical system, the research seeks to improve treatment outcomes for patients suffering from refractory VT. Patients may be monitored closely to assess their heart rhythms and responses to the therapy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with refractory ventricular tachycardia who have not responded well to standard antiarrhythmic medications or catheter ablation.

Not a fit: Patients with stable ventricular rhythms or those who have not been diagnosed with ventricular tachycardia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with difficult-to-manage ventricular tachycardia.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of cSBRT for treating ventricular tachycardia is a relatively novel approach, preliminary clinical observations suggest potential efficacy, though further investigation is needed.

Where this research is happening

PHILADELPHIA, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.