Understanding how the heart's support structure changes after injury

Extracellular Matrix Dynamics During Remodeling

NIH-funded research University of Louisville · NIH-11052468

This study looks at how the heart's support structure changes after a heart attack, especially focusing on a substance called hyaluronan that might help with healing, so we can learn more about how the heart recovers and find better ways to treat heart failure.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Louisville NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Louisville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11052468 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the dynamics of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in the heart during the remodeling process following a myocardial infarction. It focuses on both the fibrillar and non-fibrillar components of the ECM, particularly the role of hyaluronan, a key substance that may influence healing and scar formation. By examining how these components interact with heart cells and immune cells, the research aims to uncover new insights into heart recovery and function. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how heart tissue heals after injury, potentially leading to improved treatments for heart failure.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced a myocardial infarction or have chronic heart failure.

Not a fit: Patients with stable heart conditions that have not experienced recent cardiac events may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for enhancing heart recovery after injury.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been significant research on collagen in heart remodeling, the specific focus on non-fibrillar ECM components like hyaluronan is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

Louisville, 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 2026-06-09 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.