Understanding the genetics behind heart rhythm problems after heart surgery
Official title: Genomics of Post-Operative Atrial Fibrillation After Cardiac Surgery
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10985437 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes might play a role in causing heart rhythm problems after surgery for people having heart operations, and it's for patients who want to understand their risk of developing these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | March 15, 2021 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $746,205 |
| NIH project number | 7R01HL149998-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10985437 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients scheduled for cardiac surgery who are in normal sinus rhythm and are primarily of European descent.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have existing atrial fibrillation or other significant cardiac conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic factors that contribute to post-operative atrial fibrillation (poAF) in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. By analyzing atrial tissue collected during surgery, the study aims to identify genetic and epigenetic mechanisms that lead to poAF, which affects about 30% of patients in normal sinus rhythm. The research will focus on a cohort of 200 patients, primarily of European descent, to better understand how genetic variations influence heart tissue responses and the development of poAF. The findings could help improve patient outcomes by identifying those at higher risk for this complication.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better risk assessment and management strategies for patients undergoing cardiac surgery, potentially reducing the incidence of poAF and its associated complications.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has identified genetic variants associated with atrial fibrillation, suggesting that this approach has potential for success in understanding poAF.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Muehlschlegel, Jochen Daniel — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Muehlschlegel, Jochen Daniel
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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.