Understanding how the heart's pacemaker cells develop and function
Transcriptional Regulation of Sinoatrial Node Development
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-11054597
This study is looking at how the heart's natural pacemaker works and what makes its special cells develop properly, with the goal of finding new ways to help people who have heart rhythm problems and might need a pacemaker.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11054597 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the sinoatrial node (SAN), the heart's natural pacemaker, focusing on how specialized cells called pacemaker cardiomyocytes develop and function. The study aims to uncover the genetic and biological pathways that control the formation and maintenance of these cells, which are crucial for a healthy heartbeat. By using advanced genetic tools and experimental models, the researchers hope to identify new strategies to prevent or reverse sinoatrial node dysfunction, a condition that often leads to the need for pacemaker implantation. This work could provide insights into potential therapies for patients suffering from heart rhythm disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with sinoatrial node dysfunction or those at risk of developing heart rhythm issues.
Not a fit: Patients with heart rhythm disorders unrelated to sinoatrial node dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or reverse heart rhythm disorders, reducing the need for pacemaker surgeries.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding cardiac development, but this specific approach to targeting SAN progenitor cells is novel.
Where this research is happening
SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO — SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: VEDANTHAM, VASANTH — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO
- Study coordinator: VEDANTHAM, VASANTH
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.