NIH-funded research R15 grant

Understanding how specific proteins influence heart development

Official title: Regulation of cardiac patterning via Akirin/NuRD Interactions

Funded at Kennesaw State University · NIH-10514703 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how a protein called Akirin helps shape the heart during early development, using fruit flies to learn more about how it interacts with other proteins, which could help us understand heart problems that some babies are born with.

Quick facts

Grant typeR15 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionKennesaw State University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Kennesaw, United States)
Project startSeptember 5, 2022
Project endAugust 31, 2025
Funding year2022
Award (this year)$406,267
NIH project number1R15HL161738-01A1
Project IDNIH-10514703 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with congenital heart defects or those with a family history of such conditions.

Less likely to help

Patients with congenital heart defects caused solely by environmental factors or non-genetic causes may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of a protein called Akirin in the development of the heart during embryonic stages. By studying the interactions between Akirin and other proteins involved in gene regulation, the researchers aim to uncover how these interactions affect heart patterning and formation. The study uses advanced techniques such as genetic manipulation, biochemical assays, and live imaging to observe these processes in model organisms like fruit flies. The findings could provide insights into the genetic factors contributing to congenital heart defects in humans.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potential treatments for congenital heart defects.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding genetic interactions in heart development, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • Kennesaw State University
    Kennesaw, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Bryantsev, Anton — Kennesaw State University
  • Study coordinator: Bryantsev, Anton

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.