Understanding how the pericardium forms around the heart

Decoding the transcriptional mechanisms of pericardium formation

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER · NIH-11051901

This study is looking at how the protective layer around the heart, called the pericardium, forms and works, using zebrafish to help understand its role in heart health and issues like congenital heart defects.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11051901 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind the formation of the pericardium, the protective layer surrounding the heart. By using zebrafish as a model organism, the researchers will employ advanced techniques such as live imaging and single-cell transcriptome analysis to track and analyze the development of the pericardium. The goal is to uncover how the pericardium interacts with the heart and its role in heart health, particularly in the context of congenital heart defects and recovery from cardiac injuries.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with congenital heart anomalies or those who have experienced cardiac injuries.

Not a fit: Patients with fully developed and healthy cardiac structures may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for congenital heart defects and better recovery strategies for patients undergoing heart surgery.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on pericardium formation is relatively novel, similar research approaches in cardiac development have shown promising results in understanding heart formation and function.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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.